How This Trade Impacts Washington Wizards

The Washington Wizards have to do what they can to make an impact move ahead of the 2022 trade deadline. Their chances of re-signing Bradley Beal in the offseason could depend on the move they make and how well the team plays to finish out the regular season.

If Washington wants Beal to stay, they have to show they can build a sustainable winner and upgrade the roster around him. Pulling off a deal for Ben Simmons would likely do the trick.

Ben Simmons and Bradley Beal are a great match for each other in the backcourt. Simmons is an elite playmaker, who will make life easier on Beal, an elite offensive player in his own right. Beal’s defensive shortcomings would be more than made up for by Simmons, who is arguably the most versatile defender in the NBA.

Having those two as the foundation to build around could put the Wizards on track to contend for years to come. While they are currently on the outside looking in of the NBA Play-In Tournament right now, a half-game behind the Atlanta Hawks, they would be in a position to make a run the remainder of the season.

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Being within striking distance of a play-in spot, one good run would put Washington right back in the playoff race. With Kyle Kuzma, Rui Hachimura, Daniel Gafford, Aaron Holiday, Montrezl Harrell, Davis Bertans, and Thomas Bryant still around, the Wizards have solid pieces to fill out the rotation.

Ben Simmons’ versatility would be key, as he can fill the gaps the roster has, at least defensively. Having two pillars to build around, the front office can get to work in the offseason upgrading the rest of the roster around them and the pieces they have remaining from the trade.