The Washington Wizards plan for Anthony Davis to be a part of their future plans, but plans don't always go accordingly.
Davis has already made it clear he wants to contend for a championship, and while that doesn't confirm he won't stay put in D.C., it's important for the Wizards to keep their options open.
And with the playoff disaster currently unfolding for the Detroit Pistons, who find themselves down 3-1 to the No. 8-seeded Orlando Magic, the perfect Davis pivot could be lining up for the Wizards.
Wizards would be the perfect spot for Jalen Duren
Washington made the move for Davis not only because the team hoped his fit alongside Trae Young and the team's young core could help them get back in the mix of the East, but it also offered the chance for the team to add an extra option to the frontcourt alongside Alex Sarr.
The Wizards needed to add talent to the frontcourt and by landing Davis, it gave the team an option to allow Alex Sarr to play at the power forward position more.
Not to mention the defensive versatility the pairing of AD and Sarr offered.
Still, if Davis were to want out like his cryptic social media activity suggests he could, it's safe to say a pivot to a talent like Jalen Duren would be the next-best thing.
At 22, Duren would fit the timeline of the Wizards' young core, giving the team a long-term option at the center position.
Fresh off a breakout season, averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds on 65% shooting from field goal range, it's safe to say the big man would be the perfect fit for what Washington is looking for in terms of longevity and dominance.
If Davis really wants out, this is a no-brainer
Davis hasn't publicly came out to say he wants out of Washington.
In fact, he's gone on record several times to give the organization glowing reviews when he's been given the chance.
At the same time, though, it's fair to assume he's hinted at uncertainty about his future several times, which alone should be preparing the fanbase and the team that there's a path in which the future Hall of Famer doesn't see himself fitting into the team's plans.
If that is the case, landing Duren would be a solid consolation prize, especially considering his upside moving forward on a team where his opportunities would only increase.
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