The Wizards are all-in on a rebuild, meaning it’s likely time to part ways with several veterans who don’t fit into the long-term picture. With a 2-2 record after a great win over the Hawks, it could be the best time to deal their vets for a great price. Leading the way is Kyle Kuzma, whose scoring and versatility could make him a strong target for playoff teams needing a boost. Meanwhile, Malcolm Brogdon has also drawn interest but comes with some health concerns that might complicate deals. Even Jordan Poole is in the mix, though his role as the primary ball-handler may keep him around a bit longer. The team is looking to move on from these players to focus on its younger core, making the Wizards one of the most active teams in the trade market this season.
A Jonas Valanciunas Very Anticipated Move
Lakers receive: Jonas Valanciunas
Wizards receive: Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, 2025 Second-Round Pick, 2027 Second-Round Pick
There’s been plenty of talk that the Wizards signed Jonas Valanciunas this offseason with the sole purpose of eventually trading him, especially since he fits the Lakers’ needs as a big who can complement Anthony Davis. Valanciunas brings solid rebounding and interior scoring, averaging 11.7 points and 7.3 rebounds per game so far this season.
The Lakers, still on the hunt for an effective center after targeting Walker Kessler, may view Valanciunas as a capable backup option who could improve their frontcourt depth. With Valanciunas, they’d get a floor-spacing center who’s comfortable playing alongside another big man, giving Davis room to operate at power forward. Valanciunas has already shown value as a strong rebounder and an efficient scorer, with a 55.6% shooting average, proving he’d be a stabilizing force for L.A.
For the Wizards, the deal brings young talent in Hood-Schifino and Vincent, both players who fit well in a rebuilding project. The two second-round picks in 2025 and 2027 offer additional flexibility for the Wizards to either draft new talent or use as trade assets down the road. This move not only benefits the Lakers in the short term but also helps the Wizards stay on track with their long-term goals, making it a win-win for both sides.
Malcolm Brogdon Should Go To A Contender
Kings receive: Malcolm Brogdon
Wizards receive: Kevin Huerter, Trey Lyles, 2027 First-Round Pick
The Kings are missing a reliable playmaker behind De’Aaron Fox, and Malcolm Brogdon would fill that role perfectly. With his sharp three-point shooting and floor management, Brogdon could provide a strong boost, especially in a lineup with Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan. His skill from beyond the arc and ability to run an offense makes him the kind of steady presence Sacramento needs to secure more depth for a playoff run. Brogdon’s experience would allow him to step in seamlessly, complementing Fox and taking on key minutes when Fox is off the floor.
At the same time, the Wizards are in rebuild mode, and trading Brogdon aligns with their long-term goals. In this trade, they would receive two solid rotation pieces—Kevin Huerter, a dependable shooter, and Trey Lyles, a versatile forward who could either grow with the team or serve as a trade asset later on. The 2027 first-round pick also fits perfectly into their plan, giving them more flexibility as they focus on younger talent and future assets.
However, Brogdon’s recent hand injury does complicate his immediate availability. He tore a ligament in his thumb during an early October practice and underwent surgery shortly after, with recovery expected to take at least a month. While his track record of injuries may raise some concerns, Brogdon’s reputation as a high-IQ, versatile player means he’s still a target for teams that need playoff-proven depth.
A New Shot At A Title For Jordan Poole
Clippers receive: Jordan Poole
Wizards receive: Norman Powell, PJ Tucker, 2031 Firs-Round Pick
With Paul George gone and Kawhi Leonard’s health remaining uncertain, the Clippers could make a solid case for bringing in Jordan Poole to maintain their competitive edge. A lineup featuring James Harden, Poole, Kawhi (once healthy), Derrick Jones Jr., and Ivica Zubac could keep the Clippers in playoff contention without mortgaging their future, as most of their draft picks are already owed to OKC. Poole’s ability to create his own shot and shoot from deep would make him a valuable asset alongside Harden, offering consistent scoring and a potential spark for their offensive schemes.
Currently, Poole is averaging 22.0 points and 5.0 assists, with a notable 61.5% shooting efficiency from deep (8.7 3PA) in his early games with the Wizards, showing he’s capable of putting up strong numbers in his new role. This type of production could slot in perfectly for the Clippers, especially as they juggle injuries and adjust their roster depth.
For the Wizards, this trade delivers exactly what they need: a valuable future first-round pick in 2031, along with rotational players in Norman Powell and PJ Tucker. Powell brings proven scoring ability and could be either a long-term piece or a future trade asset, while Tucker’s veteran presence and defensive skills could support the young Wizards core as they continue their rebuild.
Kyle Kuzma Could Make An Impact In Cleveland
Cavaliers receive: Kyle Kuzma
Wizards receive: Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, 2025 Second-Round Pick, 2025 Second-Round Pick (Bucks)
The Cavaliers have started this season strong, winning their first five games and showing potential as a solid playoff contender. They made it to the second round last year, and a trade for Kuzma could be just what they need to step it up. Kuzma has shown strong numbers with the Wizards, averaging 17.0 points and 7.0 rebounds early this season. His scoring ability and rebounding make him a great fit for Cleveland, adding depth and versatility to a roster led by Darius Garland and Donovan Mitchell, especially in a lineup aiming to make a deeper playoff push.
For the Wizards, this trade aligns with their rebuilding goals, giving them valuable assets in LeVert and Niang, plus two second-round picks in 2025. Both LeVert and Niang offer immediate depth, while the additional picks set Washington up with future flexibility as they focus on building a young, competitive core. Kuzma’s current form and impact would make this a win-win, as he could be the boost the Cavs need to stay competitive in the East.
The Wizards’ Full Rebuild
Wizards trade: Kyle Kuzma, Malcolm Brogdon, Jordan Poole, Jonas Valanciunas
Wizards receive: Gabe Vincent, Jalen Hood-Schifino, Kevin Huerter, Trey Lyles, Norman Powell, PJ Tucker, Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, 2025 Second-Round Pick (Lakers), 2025 Second-Round Pick (Bucks), 2025 Second-Round Pick (Cavaliers), 2027 First-Round Pick (Kings), 2031 First-Round Pick (Clippers)
The Wizards’ approach here shows they’re fully committed to a long-term rebuild, sacrificing proven veterans for an intriguing mix of young players, experienced vets, and draft capital. Moving off core pieces like Kuzma and Poole signals that Washington is ready to focus on potential rather than immediate results. This trade haul includes a blend of developmental talent in Hood-Schifino and Huerter, and proven veterans like Norman Powell and PJ Tucker, who add valuable experience to help guide younger players in what’s sure to be a transitional period. Each of these players also brings flexibility—the Wizards can keep them for mentorship and rotational depth or flip them in subsequent trades if the right offers come up.
With the draft picks, Washington gains significant leverage. The three second-round picks in 2025 offer near-term flexibility for trading or selecting talent, while the first-rounders in 2027 and 2031 secure longer-term options to enhance or reshape the roster. This abundance of picks allows them to draft strategically or to package picks in deals that could bring in future core players when their roster needs them most. Washington’s front office has positioned the team well for a steady rebuild with ample room to make moves that best suit their future goals.
In summary, this restructuring through trades has granted the Wizards both current flexibility and future opportunities. With young players, strong veterans, and multiple picks in hand, they’re ready to build from the bottom up and develop a roster capable of serious contention in a few seasons.
