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Washington Wizards: 3 trade targets that could improve the defense

By Collin Loring

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 12: Davis Bertans #42 of the Washington Wizards looks to shoot in front of Georges Niang #31 of the Utah Jazz during the game at Capital One Arena on January 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 12: Davis Bertans #42 of the Washington Wizards looks to shoot in front of Georges Niang #31 of the Utah Jazz during the game at Capital One Arena on January 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 12: Davis Bertans #42 of the Washington Wizards dribbles in front of Georges Niang #31 of the Utah Jazz during the game at Capital One Arena on January 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 12: Davis Bertans #42 of the Washington Wizards dribbles in front of Georges Niang #31 of the Utah Jazz during the game at Capital One Arena on January 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

Dāvis Bertāns

As is custom this time of year, Wizards fans are clamoring for change. Which, when you factor in the team’s 17-32 record, it’s hard to blame them.

But at the same time, it’s quite possible that the best move Washington could make at the deadline, is not making a move on forward Dāvis Bertāns. He’s the Wizards’ top asset that’s not named Beal, and over the last few weeks suitors have been coming out of the woodwork.

It’s clear that no one expected him to come out firing three pointers like prime Stephen Curry this season, given that San Antonio traded him to Washington for next to nothing. But while his offense has been stellar, Bertāns actually offers a lot on the defensive end as well.

It’s not the first thing fans think of when it comes to a guy nicknamed The Latvian Laser, but keep in mind the 27-year old is also coming off of the bench. Not moving Bertāns in lieu of another defender, or potential prospect, may be the first step towards defensive efficiency.

But just in case the Wizards decides to go in a different direction with their three-point marksman, one more name to keep in mind…

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