Dallas Mavericks: Considering five possible Kristaps Porzingis trades
By Corey Rausch
Trade partner for Kristaps Porzingis: Washington Wizards
In a similar vein to the previous trade, the Washington Wizards are a team in win-now mode that could offer depth in return for Porzingis. The Wizards could make the money work by sending a package of Davis Bertans, Thomas Bryant and Chandler Hutchison back to the Mavericks in one of the least inspiring but potentially helpful trade packages imaginable.
Bryant has one year remaining on his contract and will be returning from a torn ACL. Prior to his injury this season he looked to be in line for a major raise but now finds himself potentially played out of his role by the emergence of Danial Gafford. Similarly, Chandler Hutchison will struggle to find a role in DC but could provide solid depth off the bench for a team lacking in meaningful size.
Bertans’ contract is considered one of the worst in the league given how he performed this season but he is an elite shooter for any size, shooting 39.5 percent from distance in what was considered a down year. His contract is worth less than half of Porzingis’ so the risk is clearly worthwhile. Whether Washington should commit to winning now is more of a questionable choice, but unless they are ready to move on from Beal it is the only path they can take.