As the NBA trade deadline creeps closer, the Washington Wizards find themselves in a familiar position-right in the thick of the rumor mill. This time around, though, there’s more than just smoke. There’s a real sense that Washington could be active, not necessarily as buyers or sellers in the traditional sense, but as opportunists-ready to pounce on value where others see financial burden.
This has been the Wizards’ approach throughout their rebuild: take calculated swings on players they believe in, while also being more than willing to absorb unwanted contracts if it means bringing in extra draft picks or young talent. It’s a strategy rooted in patience and flexibility, and according to insider reports, it could lead them to two intriguing names ahead of the deadline-Jerami Grant and Immanuel Quickley.
Let’s start with Grant, the veteran forward currently with the Portland Trail Blazers. His name has been floating around in trade circles for a while now, and for good reason.
He was brought into Portland during the final stages of the Damian Lillard era, part of a last-ditch effort to build a contender around the All-Star guard. But with Lillard now in Milwaukee and the Blazers fully committed to a youth movement, Grant’s role as a high-usage veteran on a rebuilding team feels increasingly out of place.
Still, Grant isn’t just a contract-he’s producing. The 31-year-old is averaging nearly 20 points per game, shooting a strong 43.8% from the field and an impressive 39.4% from deep. He’s the kind of player who can step in and contribute right away, and for a team like Washington, that could mean two things: either he becomes a short-term piece to stabilize and mentor a young roster, or he plays well enough to be flipped for even more assets down the line.
In other words, Grant isn’t your typical salary dump. He’s a proven scorer with size, versatility, and playoff experience. If Washington can get him at a discount because of his contract, that’s a savvy move-one that fits perfectly with their rebuild-first, asset-hunting mindset.
Then there’s Immanuel Quickley-a far less likely, but arguably more exciting, name to watch. The 26-year-old guard has been solid since arriving in Toronto, averaging 16.9 points, 6.3 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game. He’s not just filling a role; he’s growing into it, showing flashes of becoming a long-term starting-caliber point guard.
Quickley’s inclusion in any list of “undesirable contracts” raises eyebrows. He’s young, productive, and still developing.
While it’s possible the Raptors are exploring his market value, the idea that he’s merely a salary dump feels off. That said, if Washington were somehow able to land Quickley, it would be a significant win for their backcourt-a young, dynamic playmaker who could complement their existing pieces or become a cornerstone himself.
Realistically, Quickley might be a long shot. But even his name being floated in connection with Washington shows how open the front office is to creative possibilities. Whether it’s taking on a veteran like Grant or monitoring the market for undervalued talent like Quickley, the Wizards are playing the long game-and doing it with a sharp eye for opportunity.
As the deadline approaches, keep an eye on Washington. They’re not just looking to make noise-they’re looking to make smart moves.
And if they can turn another team’s salary cap headache into a meaningful piece of their rebuild, don’t be surprised. That’s exactly the kind of chess they’ve been playing.