Boston Celtics Receive: F/C Robert Williams III, G Derrick White, G Aaron Nesmith, 2024 First-Round Pick (BOS), 2026 First–Round Pick (BOS)
Washington Wizards Receive: G Bradley Beal
From the Washington Wizards’ perspective, this package is headlined by the 24-year-old enigma known as the Time Lord.
In triggering a rebuild, the Wizards could do worse than acquiring a potential defensive anchor right off the bat. That’s what they’d be getting in Robert Williams III.
Williams III is an undersized center at 6’8, but he compensates with a unique blend of strength, vertical leap, lateral mobility, length, and defensive IQ. Those traits allowed him to average 2.2 blocks and 0.9 steals per game while posting a Defensive Box Plus/Minus (DBPM) of 3.1 before suffering an injury with the Boston Celtics this season.
This deal also allows the Wizards to take a flier on the 22-year-old Aaron Nesmith, and net two first-round picks in the process. It’s a solid rebuilding package in the event that the organization decides to move on from Beal.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Will Robert Williams III Be Ready To Impact NBA Playoffs?
Depending on how they view Williams III, it may or may not be enough. The Washington Wizards did just acquire Kristaps Porzingis: at 26, he’s young enough to be part of a rebuild. The front office would have to decide if they prefer a 7’3 floor spacer/rim protector or a 6’8 lob threat / overall defensive anchor.
If they choose the former, the following package may hold more appeal.
