The Washington Wizards are approaching the NBA commerce deadline in just some weeks, but it surely’s been practically a month since veteran heart Jonas Valanciunas was deemed eligible to be traded.
Valanciunas, 32, signed a three-year contract with the Wizards through the offseason, however is taken into account a massive enterprise aim earlier than the deadline.
CBS Sports activities analyst Sam Quinn is stunned that the Los Angeles Lakers I have never made a deal for him but.
“Frankly, it’s a bit shocking that Valanciunas isn’t already a Laker,” Quinn writes. “What do the Wizards do with a strong backup heart in the midst of this aggressive tank? Somebody will be capable of sweep away a strong offensive massive man for 15 or 20 minutes per sport earlier than the deadline arrives. At this level, At this level, everyone knows who Valanciunas is and is not. He will not defend in area, however he is massive, robust, and has talent close to the basket.
The Wizards knew that signing Valanciunas would give them a commerce benefit all through his tenure with the group. Nevertheless, the Wizards may desire him as an enormous man who can seize minutes whereas additionally serving as a mentor to a number of the youthful members of the roster, like second general decide Alex Sarr.
This implies the Wizards could be choosy with presents that come their approach, as a result of it isn’t like they’re dropping a lot by preserving him on board.
The Lakers accomplished a commerce for Dorian Finney-Smith final month from the Brooklyn Nets, which diminished a few of their property, however they nonetheless stay a chance for a possible Valanciunas deal. Nevertheless, realizing that the Lakers have been prepared to spend on Finney-Smith means the Wizards ought to anticipate Los Angeles to pay for Valanciunas as nicely.
