Wizards, Trail Blazers Reportedly Had Talks Around All-Star Player
TORONTO, CANADA - MARCH 26: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Washington Wizards shoots the ball during the game against the Toronto Raptors on March 26, 2023 at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Vaughn Ridley/NBAE via Getty Images)
Trade rumors involving Washington Wizards star shooting guard Bradley Beal have reached a fevered pace in the past few days. But it's another Wizards star who's being mentioned in some new reports.
According to Evan Massey of NBA Analysis Network, the Wizards have had trade discussions with the Portland Trail Blazers about a potential deal that involves the Blazers' No. 3 overall pick and Washington star Kristaps Porzingis.
More pieces would be involved, per Massey.
There've been rumors about the Trail Blazers trading away their No. 3 overall pick since they won it in this year's lottery. Superstar point guard Damian Lillard is reportedly in a "win-now" mindset and hopes to add some veteran talent to next year's roster.
Pozingis, 27, averaged 23.2 points and 8.4 rebounds through 65 games for the Wizards this past season. He's had some serious injury problems over the last few seasons, but he's a productive player when healthy.
Beal, who signed a five-year, $250 million supermax extension with the Wizards last year, has a no-trade clause on his current contract — meaning he dictates his ultimate landing spot. The Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns have been reported as his two final options.
If Washington were to get rid of both Porzigis and Beal this offseason, the team would be going into full rebuild mode.
