Wizards Eyeing Darius Garland as Trade Deadline Approaches: Could He Be the Long-Term Answer at Point Guard?
As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, the Washington Wizards are emerging as a team to keep an eye on. The franchise is knee-deep in a rebuild, and while the roster is filled with young pieces and a few veteran contracts, there's still a glaring hole that continues to hold this team back: the point guard position.
The Post-John Wall Void Remains Unfilled
Ever since John Wall's departure, the Wizards have been searching for a floor general who can truly anchor the offense. They had a brief, electric run with Russell Westbrook, but that was more of a short-term thrill ride than a long-term solution. Since then, it’s been a revolving door of temporary fixes and unproven prospects.
The team hoped Bub Carrington could grow into that role this season, but the sophomore guard has hit a wall. His development has stalled, and with it, so has Washington’s ability to establish any real offensive rhythm. Carrington’s struggles have only amplified the urgency to find a lead guard who can not only facilitate but also elevate the young core around him.
The Need Is Clear - and the Market Might Deliver
Head coach Brian Keefe's system needs a true point guard - someone who can read the floor, control tempo, and set the table for players like Alex Sarr, who’s shown flashes of being a foundational piece. The Wizards aren’t just looking for a stopgap; they need someone who can grow with this group and lead them into the next phase of their rebuild.
Trade season always brings surprises, and this year is shaping up to be no different. LaMelo Ball has already surfaced as a potential target, but a new name has entered the conversation - and it might be an even better fit.
Enter Darius Garland
Darius Garland, the 25-year-old former No. 5 overall pick out of Vanderbilt, could be the kind of player Washington has been waiting for. Garland has built a reputation as one of the league’s premier pass-first point guards, with a smooth handle, sharp court vision, and the ability to score when needed. He’s not just a playmaker - he’s a conductor, capable of orchestrating an offense with poise and creativity.
Despite a down year in Cleveland, Garland’s talent is undeniable. The Cavaliers’ slow start has sparked trade rumors, and if they decide to shake things up, Garland could be on the move. If the Wizards are serious about finding their point guard of the future, this is the kind of opportunity they can’t afford to ignore.
A Garland-Sarr Duo? That’s a Future Worth Building Around
Pairing Garland with a young big like Alex Sarr could be a game-changer. Sarr has the tools to become a defensive anchor and versatile offensive weapon, but like any young big, he needs a guard who can get him the ball in the right spots and help unlock his full potential. Garland’s ability to run the pick-and-roll, push pace, and create easy looks would be a massive boost to Sarr’s development - and to the Wizards’ offensive identity overall.
This isn’t about making a splashy move for the sake of headlines. It’s about identifying a long-term fit - a player who can stabilize the backcourt, mentor younger guards, and help establish a winning culture. Garland checks those boxes.
What’s Next for Washington?
The Wizards have been patient during this rebuild, but the clock is ticking. With the trade deadline approaching and potential targets like Garland possibly becoming available, the front office has a real chance to address the most pressing need on the roster.
If the interest in Garland is real - and all signs point to it being more than just smoke - Washington has to weigh how aggressive they want to be. Because in a league where elite point guard play is often the difference between rebuilding and rising, this could be the move that changes everything.