The Washington Wizards might surprise everyone before the Feb. 5 NBA trade deadline. According to The Athletic’s Josh Robbins, they’re actually considering a move for Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans.
“League sources speculated… Williamson would be someone the Wizards would have to consider if the price is right,” Robbins reported.
That makes Washington a potential dark-horse candidate for the oft-injured star. And it’s a move almost nobody saw coming.
Zion’s name has been popping up in trade chatter lately, especially after the Wizards shook up the market by acquiring Trae Young from the Atlanta Hawks. That deal completely reshaped Washington’s roster and changed their cap situation.
Now people are wondering what they might do next.
Williamson’s Situation in New Orleans
Williamson’s been a central figure in the Pelicans’ offense when he’s actually on the court. He’s a two-time All-Star and one of the most dynamic big men in the league.
But injuries have been a real problem. They’ve limited his availability over the years and created serious uncertainty around his long-term role with the team.
Right now, the Pelicans haven’t publicly committed to moving Zion. He remains under contract and has shown elite scoring and athleticism when healthy. That makes him valuable to any contending team looking for a go-to bucket on offense.
Despite all the buzz, no official talks about a Zion trade have leaked yet. At least not publicly.
Why the Wizards Could Be Interested
Washington’s front office is trying to retool after trading for Trae Young. Young’s arrival brings immediate firepower, but the team probably needs complementary stars to accelerate its rise in the Eastern Conference.
A move for Williamson would be bold and pretty risky, given his injury history. But it could pay off big time if he stays healthy.
The Wizards are in a transition phase right now. They’ve got a combination of young talent and veteran pieces. They could view Zion as a cornerstone alongside Young.
That pairing could completely shift expectations for the franchise’s future. Imagine Young feeding Zion in the pick-and-roll – it’s the kind of offensive firepower that could make Washington relevant again.
Trade Deadline Outlook
With the deadline approaching, expect more speculation about Williamson’s future. Teams will weigh his upside against those health concerns – and they’re legitimate concerns.
Wizards executives might survey the market closely and decide if it’s worth pulling the trigger on a blockbuster deal.
If the price lines up, Washington could become a major player in one of the biggest trades of the 2025-26 season. It’s a situation worth watching closely over the next few weeks.
