Washington Wizards Receive: F/C Kevin Love, F Lamar Stevens, 2024 First-Round Pick (CLE), 2026 First-Round Pick (CLE), 2028 First-Round Pick (CLE)
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: G Bradley Beal
This deal sees the Washington Wizards taking a stick of dynamite to their present plans. If they’re in a situation where they’re trading Bradley Beal, the nuclear option may be the best option.
This deal sees the Washington Wizards returning some precious draft capital. It finds some precedent in the trade the Nets made with the Rockets for James Harden. Harden was a recent MVP: he commanded 7 picks and pick swaps. Beal isn’t quite in the same tier: 3 unprotected first-round picks are probably market value.
Kevin Love is here to make the money work, but he is in a contract year. His expiring deal has value for the Wizards, whether because he’ll open up financial flexibility for the next offseason, or because it should be easier to move before the trade deadline.
Based on his stellar play for the Cleveland Cavaliers this season, he may have trade value to a contender.
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Saying goodbye is notoriously difficult. It may sting for the Washington Wizards to part with Beal without receiving a particularly useful young player in return. Still, the opportunity to add 3 first-round picks and a moveable contract might be equally hard for this front office to pass up.
On the other hand, if they want a different package, the Cavaliers may have the flexibility to offer that also.
