The Washington Wizards have been listed as a team that is likely to be in deal making mode as the NBA Trade Deadline approaches in February.
After their slow start to the season, the noise surrounding the Wizards willingness to part ways with some of the teams' veterans has grown louder and louder. Now, with a 3-21 record, Washington seems growingly more likely to have a new-look roster when the trade deadline comes to a conclusion a couple of months from now.
And while the reports have suggested that the Wizards have been a team reaching out around the league to let teams know they were in deal making mode, it seems that one team in specific has taken these calls and put real thought in getting a deal done.
That said, while the Wizards talent on the roster may not be enough to bring wins back to Washington, a certain Western Conference team feels that not one, but two pieces on the Wizards roster could be the key to elevating their squad to the next level.
Nuggets reportedly interested in Jordan Poole and Jonas Valanciunas
The Denver Nuggets are reportedly on the market for another explosive scoring option to fit alongside their current core that could give them the opportunity to contend in a loaded Western Conference. One name that has been floated around within the Nuggets front office has been Wizards guard Jordan Poole.
Poole may not be a player that the Wizards have publically made available for trade, but with Denver's interest, it seems general manager Will Dawkins may have floated the idea that the Michigan product could be had for the right price. Avergaging 20.3 points and 5.1 assists on 43.4% shootng from field goal range, it may be smart for the Wizards to cash in on Poole's return now while they still can.
Considering the team sits with a league-worst record, it's clear that the scoring guard doesn't offer the team enough to compete at a high-level with his inconsistencies as the top option on offense. And if Denver is willing to meet their asking price, it would be a no-brainer for the Wizards to pull the trigger.
In addition to Poole, the Nuggets have also seemingly shown interest in Jonas Valanciunas as the team seeks a front court option to pair alongside Nikola Jokic that can also give them solid minutes while the three-time MVP is on the bench.
Looking ahead, the Nuggets interest seems to be preliminary but it could certainly be something to watch.