As the NBA trade deadline quickly approaches, the noise around a potential roster shakeup for the Washington Wizards continues to pick up steam.
Not only do the Wizards have plenty of veterans on the trade market that could immediately help contending teams, but they also have the ability to help facilitate blockbuster trades considering the current structure of their roster.
On Thursday, we took a look at a 5-team trade scenario that was suggested that included the Wizards being a key part of a huge blockbuster trade. If you'd like to take a look at this scenario, click on the link above.
Now, we're back on Friday with another big in-season hypothetical trade that has Washington moving on from two key veterans. That said, here's a look at the hypothetical trade and we review why the Wizards would or wouldn't make this move.
Hypothetical four-team deal shakes up Wizards roster
Here's a look at the potential deal below. Obviously, the illustration shows Julius Randle and Alec Burks would be the return for the Wizards as general manager Will Dawkins would send Jonas Valanciunas and Malcolm Brogdon back to the Western Conference to join the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Burks would be coming from the Heat although it appears as he's apart of the T-Wolves roster. This deal ultimately includes the Wizards and Timberwolves in order to facilitate the deal for the Heat and Suns who appear to be at a financial standstill due to Miami's reluctancy to bring back multiple salaries.
Nonetheless, why the deal may seem a bit lopsided, here's my thoughts on why the Wizards would make this deal and why they wouldn't.
Why the Wizards WOULD make this deal
The Wizards would land two veterans in exchange for two veterans of their own. However, the difference is, Valanciunas is inked to long term deals that would remain on Washington's books moving forward unless they find another landing spot for them.
Meanwhile, Julius Randle will have a player option in the offseason, one he's very likely to opt-out of, especially if he's a member of the rebuilding Wizards. In addition, Burks is set to become a free agent this offseason, as is Brogdon.
Ultimately, Washington would make this deal to free up future financials. In addition, the trade would make them no better as they would likely still struggle immensely to grab wins as they continue to chase the No. 1 overall pick this coming offseason.
Why the Wizards WOULDN'T make this deal
The answer for this is easy; Washington could simply feel that they could get a better trade package for their veterans, especially if they're targeting a more draft pick-oriented return in any potential deal.