Entering this season, the writing was on the wall for the Washington Wizards to be a team that used this season as a rebuilding year, mixed with a retooling season.
When talking about retooling, most would consider that to be moves to affect their current win-now status. However, Washington loaded up in the offseason with the right mixture of veterans that could put them in a position to capitalize on contending teams' needs when the trade season comes around.
That said, here’s a look at players Washington is reportedly expressing interest in moving as they turn into a seller as the season progresses.
Wizards open for business
As many know, the Wizards acquired Malcolm Brogdon in the offseason, as well as signing big man Jonas Valanciunas. The two additions alone were players that contending teams had reportedly had an interest in bringing either talented vet in.
Brogdon on his own, was a name that many suggested could immediately impact a backcourt needy team. Since his contributions for Eastern Conference contenders like the Milwaukee Bucks, Indiana Pacers, and Boston Celtics, the Virginia product has been considered a missing piece for many rosters.
However, the new CBA guidelines have made it a tall task for other contenders to make a move for the guard. And while dealing for Brogdon may be tough to do, if a team does believe he could be the key to a championship run, there’s always a will when there is a way.
As for Valanciunas, the big man signed with Washington knowing there would be a high chance he would be moved before the deadline. The offseason signing was likely a win-win for both sides, with the 32-year-old getting the payday he was seeking, while also putting the Wizards in position to trade him to a potential contender for draft capital along with other assets.
Furthermore, the two latest additions to Washington aren’t the only players on the market. With Kyle Kuzma still on the roster, he will likely be a hot name on the market, especially as the NBA trade deadline approaches. Kuzma was nearly traded last season, but Washington allowed the forward to decide his fate at the time.
Although he didn’t feel a move at the time was best for him, there’s no telling his mind won’t change this go around as the Wizards continue down a long road of rebuilding.
According to Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer, the Wizards are “absolutely in deal-making mode” and they will continue to be a team to monitor.