The 2018 30-team NBA mega-trade that solves nothing and makes everyone mad
By Ian Levy
Washington Wizards
Sending out: Markieff Morris (NYK), Jodie Meeks (ATL), Marcin Gortat (SAC), 2018 first-round pick (ATL)
Bringing in: Ersan Ilyasova (ATL), Lou Williams (LAC), Tristan Thompson (CLE)
The Washington Wizards need depth so I went and got them some depth. Washington moves out their entire frontcourt here but what they get in return seems like a pretty worthwhile haul. Thompson would be an excellent replacement for Gortat, although the remaining years on his contract lock the Wizards in even further to this core. He’s an excellent screen-setter, rim-runner and rim-protector.
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Ilyasova could replace Morris at power forward, or Kelly Oubre could slide off the bench into that role full time. Either way, Ilyasova is an excellent 3-point shooter at a big position, on an expiring deal. Even if he just duplicates Mike Scott, he would be a useful piece to have around. Finally, Washington gets Williams to add to their guard rotation. He can be the primary ball-handler for the second-unit providing tons of scoring punch. He also could create some really interesting three-guard lineups playing next to Wall and Beal.