The Washington Wizards turned heads by completing a low-cost trade for four-time All-Star point guard Trae Young. It was a clear endorsement of Young as not only a high-level talent, but as a player who can help transform a team that's still in the process of developing an identity.
If a recent rumor proves true, then there may be another multi-time All-Star on the radar who can help Young define the new chapter of Wizards basketball: Domantas Sabonis.
Washington's activity ahead of the trade deadline signals a desire to expedite the undertaking of returning to relevance. At 10-33, that process will require some blend of internal development and a general improvement to the top-end talent on the roster.
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Wizards may have a player in mind to help them do so, as they're one of several teams keeping an eye on Sabonis as the Sacramento Kings endure turbulent times of their own.
"While Washington, Phoenix and Chicago are known to have had some interest in Sabonis, league sources confirmed reports that Toronto is a legitimate possibility as we approach the deadline."
That's far from a guarantee that Sabonis will be heading to Washington at the deadline, but it's intriguing to know that the front office is pursuing avenues to acquire a second star.
Wizards expressed interest in Kings big man Domantas Sabonis
One of the primary reasons the Young trade has been heralded as a low-risk, high-reward endeavor is the fact that Washington gave up minimal assets in the trade for him. Corey Kispert and CJ McCollum are both quality players, but the Wizards somehow completed the deal without losing a single draft pick.
Washington will now enter the 2026 NBA Draft with two first-round selections, and have at least one pick in every year between 2026 and 2032.
With a surplus of draft picks and a roster that's flush with promising young talent, the Wizards have the ability to make compelling trade offers. That could appeal to a Kings side that's low on assets of its own in terms of both short-term and long-term value.
As far as appealing to Sabonis is concerned, the Wizards could realistically move forward with one of the most promising rosters in the Eastern Conference in 2026-27.
Sabonis, a two-time All-NBA honoree and three-time All-Star, could help Young create the foundation for an elite offense. Assuming Alex Sarr is kept out of trade discussions, the Wizards would have a chance to move forward with at least three productive players—including a rim protector who can complement Sabonis.
Washington could also potentially hold on to its 2026 first-round draft pick that's currently in line to have the third-highest odds of landing at No. 1 overall.
With a sudden influx of talent, the Wizards could realistically be a factor for a spot in the Play-In Tournament or perhaps even the playoffs as soon as next season. Even if that isn't the case, the foundation could be laid for steady relevance in the Eastern Conference.
The Wizards will have competition for Sabonis and may not even make an offer for him, but the fact that he's on the radar proves the franchise is far from finished with its trade activity.