Washington Wizards: Complete grades for the 2019 NBA offseason
By Ben Yokoyama
Trade with Los Angeles Lakers
When news of the Anthony Davis blockbuster deal emerged, NBA fans did not take notice that the Washington Wizards hopped into the deal and acquired three young players and a second-round selection while giving up essentially nothing in return to the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Wizards gave up just cash in return in order for the Lakers to clear up roster spots on their revamped roster, but each of the three young return pieces have chances of making the team.
Moritz Wagner was a surprise first-round selection in 2018 thanks to a successful NCAA Tournament for the Michigan Wolverines and some not so bright picking by the Lakers. He played most of last season in the NBA but did not see many minuets in his 43 games.
He brings a lot of energy to a team as Wiz fans saw in Summer League, but this does not always lead to success. He did not shoot well from behind the arc and is not quick enough to be an athletic big.
However, he does have prior success shooting the 3-ball in college, where it was one of the weapons that opened the rest of his game and has a variety of post moves that are somewhat effective even with the length of the NBA.
Isaac Bonga was the second piece in the deal. This 6’9” point guard has loads of potential due to his unique guard skill set with forward height. He has a long way to go until he’s playing significant NBA minutes.
The German was a second-round pick in 2018. While his handles and defense are good, his decision-making and especially his shooting ability must improve if he is to make it at the highest level.
This is a good pickup because he has two years left on his contract and if Bonga can get closer to his maximum potential, he could be worth a long-term signing.
The final piece in the deal was Jemerrio Jones. While he stands 6’5”, he is one of the best young rebounders in the league. He is very strong and has Dennis Rodman-like anticipation when it comes to rebounding.
Jones is more of a throw-in to this deal and will likely spend much of this year in the G League. His contract this year in not guaranteed and it the only year remaining on his deal.
However, if he proves he has some offensive game to go with his rebounding, he could fill the back end of a bench that has a lot of question marks.
Overall, the Wizards gave up nothing and returned one player with starting potential in Bonga and two others who could become strong role players in a year where they will all get their chances on the court. Nothing to complain about here for Wizards fans.