The NBA’s free agency period is nearly over. If you look at the remaining players, there aren’t a lot of inspiring names. With that said, there is one player who stands out. Why doesn’t PJ Washington have a home yet?
After all, Washington is a good, young player. This is a combo big who can play the 4 or man the 5 for small ball lineups. Washington can guard multiple positions and space the floor. Shouldn’t somebody want him?
In all likelihood, someone will. By now, it doesn’t seem like the Charlotte Hornets will retain him. If they were interested in doing so, one would assume they’d have made him an offer. Could the Orlando Magic be interested in working out a sign-and-trade for him?
The Trade Proposal
Charlotte Hornets Receive: F/C Jonathan Isaac, 2025 Second-Round Pick (ORL), 2027 Second-Round Pick (ORL)
Orlando Magic Receive: F/C PJ Washington
It’s worth exploring the question further: why wouldn’t the Hornets retain Washington? He’s young, and he’s useful. Washington gives you a lot of value on an NBA floor. What exactly is going on here?
It could be a product of the new CBA. Soon enough, it will be more prohibitive to go over the salary cap. Perhaps the Hornets are weary. For what it’s worth, they just drafted Brandon Miller with the second overall pick. In time, they’re surely hoping he’ll be worthy of a max contract.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Washington, Orlando Magic & Charlotte Hornets Updates
Meanwhile, the Hornets may have learned a recent lesson in hanging out bloated contracts. Gordon Hayward’s deal has been limiting their flexibility for years. In either case, the Hornets may not want to retain Washington. Should the Magic give him a look?
Why The Orlando Magic Do The Deal
Some Magic fans may question this deal. To be sure, they’re loaded with talent in the frontcourt. Paolo Banchero is the starting 4, and Franz Wagner should get minutes at that position too. Are we sure about this?
Absolutely. In the modern NBA, versatility is the name of the game. Washington is one of the best small-ball 5s in the NBA. He’ll be the perfect player to space the floor for both of Orlando’s lead wings.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Washington, Orlando Magic & Charlotte Hornets Updates
Writing a deal like this is a bit tricky. We don’t know what Washington’s price tag will be. Arguably, his value is now depressed. In all likelihood, the Magic would prefer to flip the oft-injured Isaac, but if necessary, it would even be worth parting with Gary Harris to bring in Washington. Should the Hornets be interested in either?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
We’re not sure. It doesn’t even matter. The Hornets don’t do this deal to bring in either Isaac or Harris. They’re simply getting value for a pending free agent.
With that said, taking a flyer on Isaac could hold some intrigue. Sure, he’s constantly injured. At this point, we’re not sure if Isaac will have a career in the NBA. On the other hand, if he could just get his body right, this is a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate. Isaac could be much better than Washington.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Washington, Orlando Magic & Charlotte Hornets Updates
If he isn’t? He’s on an expiring deal. As we’ve established, that ought to matter to the Hornets. Throw in a pair of second-round picks, and this is a good return for Washington – even if he is the best free agent left on the market.
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