The Washington Wizards have made several mistakes over the last few years.
Washington missed the opportunity to capitalize on Kyle Kuzma's play when they had the chance, held onto the hope they could build a contender around Bradley Beal until it was too late and they've found themselves making moves that have come back to bite them in the end.
However, arguably the biggest mistake the Wizards have made in the last few seasons has been the player they gave up on too soon and that mistake continues to haunt them as the season progresses.
Wizards gave up on Deni Avidja too soon
When the Wizards made the decision to trade Deni Avdija, it caught many by surprise.
The former No. 9 overall pick hadn't emerged as a star in Washington during his time, but the forward did show enough flashes that made many fans upset by the team's decision to move on from him when they did.
Washington ultimately landed Malcolm Brogdon and the pick to select Bub Carrington in the draft as the immediate returns from the deal, and while it seemed like a solid return at the time, all indications suggest the Wizards front office can't help but regret the decision to move on.
Avidja has looked like a star since taking advantage of his change of scenery and the increased chip on his shoulder has allowed for him to take a major leap since arriving to Portland.
In 8 games to start the season, Avdija is averaging 24.4 points, 6.5 rebounds and 4.5 assists, while shooting 46.5% from field goal range and 36% from beyond the arc.
Not only is the forward performing like a star on a consistent basis, but he's doing it against the top teams in the league.
In the midst of handing the reigning champs their first loss of the season, Avidja led the way in Wednesday's win over the Oklahoma City Thunder, totaling 26 points, 10 rebounds and 9 assists..
Avidja's emergence not only makes the Portland Trail Blazers' front office look brilliant, but it makes the Wizards' decision to give up the international prospect so early look terrible.
Especially when factoring in the fact that Malcolm Brogdon's departure in free agency eventually led to his retirement and Carrington's underwhelming start to the season.
Until the Wizards find a star wing of their own, they'll forever to haunted about the idea of what could have been with Avidja had he stuck around in Washington for the long haul.