In a perfect world, the Portland Trail Blazers would give the Milwaukee Bucks their first-round picks back in exchange for superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Unfortunately, that remains in pipe dream territory for now. Portland isn't going to sacrifice its future assets unless Giannis commits to staying in the Pacific Northwest long-term. Giannis seems set on playing for a contender, preferably staying in the Eastern Conference.
With that being the case, Portland could pivot its approach to a more realistic star: Anthony Davis.
NBA insider Jake Fischer previously reported that the Blazers inquired about Davis at the deadline, though the Dallas Mavericks were reluctant to sacrifice their financial flexibility by taking on Jerami Grant as a salary filler. If they aren't able to land Giannis this summer, Portland could revisit Davis trade talks -- this time with the Washington Wizards.
Blazers may have to look elsewhere for a blockbuster trade
However, one would assume that the Wizards coming away with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft would change their approach. They now have a face of the franchise to build around, whether that's Cameron Boozer, Darryn Peterson, or most likely, AJ Dybantsa.
This recent development makes the Wizards look genius for buying low on stars Trae Young and Anthony Davis at the deadline. They have a high enough ceiling to the point where they can effectively accelerate their rebuilding timeline, meaning it makes more sense to keep Davis around this summer.
He should still be considered a trade candidate, as I wouldn't be surprised if they decide to part ways with their injury-prone star for the right price. From Portland's standpoint, though, the appeal in trading for a risky star like Davis is that it would come at a relative discount.
Blazers general manager Joe Cronin made it clear at the end of season exit interview that he's open to trading for a star this summer but isn't going to sacrifice Portland's promising future in the process. In other words, the only realistic solution is landing someone like Davis, whose age, contract, and injury proneness seem to be baked into the trade value.
The Wizards may not view Davis as expendable after winning the lottery. Not to mention, there's less incentive to bottom out in general with the NBA's new anti-tanking proposal. The Wizards tanked at the perfect time and could look to keep the polarizing star duo of Young-Davis around.
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