Crafting the Washington Wizards' ideal 5-man starting lineup after the trade deadline

PF: Jonathan Isaac

Another trade target for the Wizards should be Jonathan Isaac of the Orlando Magic. In a trade involving Tyus Jones, Kyle Kuzma, or even Jordan Poole, a return involving Isaac on top of draft compensation would be ideal for Washington. Despite dealing with major injuries his whole career, Isaac is still only 26 years old and a fantastic defender.

The Wizards, who are the worst defensive team in the league could use his services as he provides much-needed size, length, and athleticism. Isaac is still averaging 1.2 blocks and 0.9 steals in 13 minutes per game this season. In a larger role as the starting power forward, Isaac can go back to being one of the most impactful defenders in the NBA.  

C: Daniel Gafford

Washington certainly needs reinforcements to their big-man rotation, but it’s hard to see how they can acquire a better center than Gafford for the starting role. Daniel Gafford has been very effective as a shot-blocker and rim-finisher all season. He still needs to get better at rebounding and not fouling, but he is only 25 years old and has plenty of room to grow. The Wizards will likely not find a center who is younger and better than Gafford at the deadline. They should, however, add a defense-first big man to back Gafford up so that the team defense doesn’t completely fall off when he is on the bench.