The Washington Wizards shocked the NBA earlier this month by trading for Trae Young, but if recent reports are any indication, that blockbuster move was just the opening salvo of a much larger plan. According to league insiders, the Wizards have identified Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant as their primary target ahead of the February trade deadline, aiming to pair the veteran wing with their new All-Star point guard.
The logic behind the move signals a drastic shift in philosophy for Washington. After spending the last two seasons stripping the roster down for draft assets, the front office appears ready to accelerate the timeline. With Young now running the offense—acquired for a package centered on CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert the team is reportedly looking for a “win-now” defensive presence to balance the roster.
Jerami Grant fits that description perfectly. The 31-year-old forward is currently averaging 20.0 points per game for Portland while shooting nearly 39% from three-point range. More importantly, his 6-foot-7 frame and defensive versatility would provide the exact cover Young needs on the perimeter.
“The Wizards are in a unique position where they can be aggressive buyers without sacrificing their long-term flexibility,” noted one Eastern Conference executive. “They have the cap space to absorb Grant’s contract without sending out matching salary, which makes them a very attractive trade partner for Portland.”
Grant is currently in the third year of a five-year, $160 million contract a deal that many contenders have balked at. However, Washington views his salary not as a burden, but as the price of admission for acquiring a high-level starter. By taking on the money, the Wizards hope to acquire Grant without giving up the premium draft capital usually required for a player of his caliber.
For Portland, the deal offers a chance to clear their books and fully hand the keys to their younger core of Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe. For Washington, it represents a bold gamble: betting that a core of Trae Young, Jerami Grant, and rookie Alex Sarr can be competitive immediately in a weakened Eastern Conference.
The “tank” appears to be officially over in the nation’s capital. With Trae Young already in the fold and Jerami Grant potentially on the way, the Wizards are sending a message that they intend to be a playoff threat much sooner than anyone anticipated.
