4 Newly-available trade targets the Washington Wizards should pursue after December 15

Omer Yurtseven

Another player who signed a contract with a new team this past offseason but hasn't found the playing time he desired is the Utah Jazz big man Omer Yurtseven. The 25-year-old Turkish center has been playing more regularly lately in the absence of Lauri Markkanen but he is low on the pecking order of frontcourt players that include Markkanen, Walker Kessler, Kelly Olynyk, John Collins, and Taylor Hendricks. Even though Yurtseven has been productive in his limited minutes, he doesn't have a clear path to consistent playing time.

Currently, Yurtseven is averaging 4.7 points and 5 rebounds in 12.6 minutes of action per game. This level of productivity is similar to what he has shown as the third-string center for the Miami Heat. Every time his teams needed him, Yurtseven stepped up and made a difference as a tenacious rebounder, interior scorer, and physical presence. His 7-foot, 260-pound frame would immediately make him the most physically overwhelming Wizard on the roster. On top of his size, he has impressive lateral mobility and the ability to go up for lob finishes.

Yurtseven is the type of low-risk, high-reward player the Wizards need to be targeting. Players who have been overlooked by their previous teams, or buried in a crowded rotation for one reason or another can blossom in a new situation. Washington is fortunate enough to have the ability to offer these sorts of players consistent roles and playing time. Sometimes that's all young NBA players need: the opportunity and patience.

The Wizards have the chance to make themselves into an organization with a focus on player development. Giving players second or third chances is a great way to find value on the margins. Building that reputation will allow the organization to attract more free agents and become a destination agents will want to have their young players play for. That is why identifying the right players at this trade deadline is key. If the Wizards can find some gems they can develop, they can still salvage this miserable season.