The Wizards' rebuild may be pointing toward a shocking trade target

"Nonetheless, following the blockbuster trade to acquire four-time All-Star Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks, it seems as if the Wizards have their sights set on potentially making a push for a playoff run sooner than originally expected. Considering Washington's abundance of young talent and assets, mixed with the veteran contract of Khris Middleton and future financial flexibility, it doesn't come as a surprise to hear the Wizards rumored to be in the market to make additional trades ahead of the NBA trade deadline in February."

"However, not all rumors should be taken serious. In fact, most rumors should be taken with a grain of salt considering the amount of made up sources who tend to throw information against the wall hoping it sticks. Nonetheless, this recent rumor may not be one to overlook considering it came from one of the most reliable sources covering the Wizards. The early smoke from The Athletic's Josh Robbins report about the Wizards slight interest in another blockbuster trade definitely raises eyebrows and for that, it's worth talking about."

"The New Orleans Pelicans have reportedly made it clear to teams that star player and former No. 1 overall pick Zion Williamson is off limits in trade talks. Then again, New Orleans front office has been known to make some wild moves and with the dialogue clearly being consistent between the Pelicans and the Wizards (shoutout Jordan Poole), Robbins report doesn't exactly come as a total shock, especially after the move to land Young."

The Washington Wizards remain in a rebuild but also appear to be shifting toward competing sooner after acquiring Trae Young. The roster includes significant young talent, movable assets, Khris Middleton's veteran contract, and future salary flexibility. The team is reportedly exploring additional trades ahead of the February deadline and holds slight interest in another high-profile move that could accelerate contention. The New Orleans Pelicans have told teams that Zion Williamson, Herb Jones, Trey Murphy III, Derik Queen, and Jeremiah Fears are off-limits, yet front-office unpredictability and ongoing dialogue keep the possibility of a trade alive.

Read at Wiz of Awes