Why The Washington Wizards Do The Deal 

For the Wizards, this deal hinges on Ben Simmons’ production. 

If they’re viewing him as simply a salary matcher, they may still do the deal. They’re trading Beal for a young player with star potential in Thomas and a pair of first-round picks. That’s fair value. 

On the other hand, if they’re getting a fully maximized version of Simmons, this could be a steal. If he can return to the form that saw him making multiple All-Star teams, this trade suddenly looks great for the Wizards. 

Retaining Kristaps Porinzgis could go a long way toward securing that outcome. He’s exactly the type of stretch 5 that should compliment Simmons.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards & Brooklyn Nets Updates

Still, even if Simmons’ best days are behind him, this trade makes sense for the Wizards. 

If nothing else, it has them choosing a direction.