The NBA trade deadline never fails to deliver drama, and this year is no exception. In a blockbuster eight-player deal, two former Ohio State Buckeyes found themselves on the move, headlining a flurry of roster reshuffling between the Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards.
At the heart of the trade is 10-time All-Star Anthony Davis, who’s headed to Washington in a deal that also sends D’Angelo Russell, Jaden Hardy, and Dante Exum to the Wizards. In return, Dallas receives Khris Middleton, AJ Johnson, Malaki Branham, Marvin Bagley III, plus a haul of draft capital - two first-round picks and three second-rounders.
Let’s break this down.
D’Angelo Russell Heads East
Russell, a former No. 2 overall pick and one of the more well-known Buckeyes in the league, is on the move again. After playing just 26 games for Dallas this season, he’ll now suit up for the Wizards.
His stint with the Mavs was short but serviceable - averaging 10.2 points, 4 assists, and 2.3 rebounds in 19 minutes per game, mostly off the bench. He didn’t have a featured role in Dallas, but his ability to create offense and run the second unit could be a valuable asset for a Washington team still searching for stability in the backcourt.
Malaki Branham Joins the Mavericks
Heading the other way is Malaki Branham, another Ohio State product, who’s now getting a fresh start in Dallas. Branham played 28 games for the Wizards this season, averaging 4.6 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 0.8 assists in just under 10 minutes per game.
He’s still early in his development, but the Mavericks are clearly betting on his upside. With his scoring instincts and smooth shooting stroke, Branham could carve out a bigger role in Dallas’ rotation - especially if they’re looking to get younger and more dynamic on the wing.
Ohio State Roots Run Deep
With Russell and Branham swapping teams, that makes three former Buckeyes traded in just two days. On Tuesday, veteran point guard Mike Conley was dealt from the Timberwolves to the Bulls, continuing a mini-trend of Ohio State alumni on the move.
That trio is part of a group of seven former Buckeyes currently active in the NBA, including Jamison Battle (Raptors), E.J. Liddell (Nets), Brice Sensabaugh (Jazz), and Jae’Sean Tate (Rockets).
It’s a reminder of the program’s steady pipeline to the pros - and how those players continue to shape the league in various roles, from All-Stars to rising prospects.
Big Picture for Dallas and Washington
This trade isn't just about the Buckeyes, though. It’s a seismic shift for both franchises.
Dallas parts ways with Davis, a franchise cornerstone and defensive anchor, in exchange for Middleton - a proven scorer and playoff-tested veteran - and a package that adds both youth and future assets. Meanwhile, Washington takes a swing on Davis, hoping his presence can reset the culture and elevate their ceiling.
The inclusion of Russell and Branham adds another layer of intrigue. Both are talented guards with very different trajectories - Russell, the seasoned vet looking for his next chapter; Branham, the young scorer hoping to find his footing.
As the dust settles, this deal will be dissected from every angle. But one thing’s clear: the NBA’s trade deadline just reminded us again why it’s one of the most exciting weeks in sports.