Sat, Jul 6, 2024 at 12:00am

JONAS VALANCIUNAS JOINS THE WIZARDS

The Washington Wizards acquired center Jonas Valanciunas from the New Orleans Pelicans for a protected second-round draft pick in 2027.

What does it give the Washington Wizards
In Valanciunas, the Wizards add a veteran center who is still one of the best rebounders in the game. The 32-year-old appeared in all 82 games last season, and will likely start for his new team. Washington also inked Valanciunas to a three-year contract in this sign-and-trade transaction.

What does it give the New Orleans Pelicans
After three seasons with the Pelicans, Valanciunas was set to become an unrestricted free agent. However, New Orleans worked out this agreement with Washington by using a trade exception. The Pelicans did well to pick up a draft pick for facilitating this sign-and-trade deal.

Fantasy impact
Valanciunas receives a small boost in fantasy value from this trade. His average stats were down last season, due in part to seeing fewer minutes. With the rebuilding Wizards, he should have a better chance at more playing time and a bounce-back season.