Washington Wizards Receive: G Kyrie Irving
Brooklyn Nets Receive: C Kristaps Porzingis
We almost sent a first-round pick the Brooklyn Nets’ way in this swap. In a vacuum, they’re parting with the best player in this deal.
Tough luck. NBA transactions don’t occur in a vacuum. Kyrie Irving has established himself as an unpredictable entity. That hurts his trade value with this Washington Wizards trade reflecting it.
Of course, Porzingis is not the league’s most reliable player either. That’s why the Wizards even were in a position to trade for him. It’s not fringe philosophies or arguably misguided principles that keep him off the floor. Good old-fashioned injuries are the culprit with Porzingis’ missed time.
At least the Nets know Porzingis will be on the floor when he can be. That has to count for something. He’s also the perfect stretch five to complement Ben Simmons.
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While the Nets will certainly have a different look than they expected when they first acquired Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving, it may be a more balanced one. They’ll certainly be a better defensive team than anticipated using this Wizards trade.
As for the Wizards, they’ll be giving Bradley Beal his best backcourt mate since prime John Wall with this deal. If Irving is ready and willing to play, and they find a suitable Porzingis replacement, they’ll be a better team for this transaction.
