The Washington big man could be the next key player on his way out of the nation’s capital.
The Celtics, Clippers and Wizards are reportedly discussing a three-team trade that would send Kristaps Porziņģis to Boston, Marcus Morris and draft compensation to Washington and Malcolm Brogdon to Los Angeles, according to The Athletic’s Sham Charania.
Charania previously reported that Boston and Washington have been in discussion about a potential “framework” for a deal with Porziņģis, who has a $36 million player option for the 2023–24 NBA season. As of now, all sides are still working through details and Porziņģis’s player option, according to Charania.
Porziņģis is coming off one of the best seasons in his eight-year career, in which he averaged career highs in points per game (23.2) and field goal percentage (49.8%). While the Latvian big man has a track record of injuries, he also played in 65 games during the 2022–23 campaign, the third-highest amount in any single season of his career.
The 7-footer could have a direct impact for Boston due to his ability to protect the rim, rebound and score. However, in return, Boston would likely have to potentially part ways with draft compensation to acquire Porziņģis.
Eastern Conference championship contender pursuing Kristaps Porzingis in potential opt in-and-trade with the Wizards: pic.twitter.com/JFQ78784rk
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 21, 2023
After the Wizards opted to trade Bradley Beal to the Suns on Sunday, owner Ted Leonsis and team president Michael Winger have signaled that a rebuild is coming in the nation’s capital. However, the Wizards have expressed interest in bringing back Porziņģis on a new deal, according to Charania.
Porziņģis, who turns 28 in August, has until Wednesday afternoon to determine if he will opt in on his player option for next season.
