The Washington Wizards have continued to scan the trade market for any potential addition that they feel could make them better.
For a rebuilding team, general manager Will Dawkins has made it clear that every move he makes comes with a purprose.
For CJ McCollum, his acquisition handed the Wizards a veteran presence that could be relied on in the backcourt; something Washington desperately needed following the failed Malcolm Brogdon experiment.
When it comes to Cam Whitmore, his addition brings a former first-round pick with high upside and hometown ties with the opportunity to emerge as an immediate impact player for the Wizards moving forward.
Washington won't be shy when it comes to pulling the trigger on a deal that takes them one step closer to the light at the end of the tunnel and considering the current roster construction of the Wizards, the need for an adequate big man to pair alongside Alex Sarr could be beneficial in more than one way.
Looking around the league, not many talented big men are available. In fact, it's not often that a talented big does become available.
However, that could change very soon and if there's any team that should be monitoring the recent development out West, it's Washington.
Donovan Clingan could be odd man out in Portland
Donovan Clingan was drafted with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft following a breakout sophomore season at UConn.
The versatile big stands at 7-foot-2, is a tremendous shot blocker and has the ability to stretch the floor with an improving jumper.
So far, his start with the Trail Blazers has been a bit lackluster and after an inconsistent rookie season, Portland opted to take a swing on another big this offseason, selecting Yang Hansen with the No. 16 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
The Chinese product impressed in Summer League and quickly put questions around the future of the frontcourt in Portland.
Now, after an impressive start to preseason play, it wouldn't be a shock to see the Trail Blazers consider moving on from Clingan to open up more room for Hansen's development.
If that were the case, the Wizards who've already shown the an open line of communication with the Trail Blazers in the past, could look to get involved in the sweepstakes.
Pairing Clingan alongside Sarr could not only give the Wizards one of the most versatile young frontcourts in the league, but the two skyscrapers could pose a defensive nightmare for opposing teams.