BREAKING NEWS: Former 2nd Overall Pick Traded

With the Pistons and Wizards both at the bottom of the Eastern Conference after an abysmal start to the season, they are looking to shake things up with an unexpected trade between the two teams.

Trade

As revealed by NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski, the Pistons are trading the former 2nd overall pick, Marvin Bagley, to the Wizards. Along with Bagley, they are sending forward Isaiah Livers, as well as two second-round draft picks, in return for veterans Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala.

The Pistons and Wizards are finalizing a deal to trade Marvin Bagley, Isaiah Livers, and two second-round picks for forwards Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala, sources tell ESPN.— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) January 14, 2024

Team Struggles

With the Wizards and Pistons winning just 7 and 3 games, respectively, it is unlikely that, with only half a season remaining, these trades will be impactful in terms of pushing for a playoff spot. Nonetheless, it does show both franchises are at least attempting to make changes for the better.

Eastern Conference standings pic.twitter.com/Y8YJuYDUKe— John Ledesma (@JohnnyNBA) January 13, 2024

Marvin Bagley III

The most notable player in this trade is Marvin Bagley, who was originally drafted 2nd overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2018. Although he has not lived up to his high draft expectations, he is still just 24 years old with over 5 seasons of NBA experience.

So far this season, he has only been averaging 10.2 points per game, which is the second lowest of his career. However, he has been shooting the ball better with career highs of 59.1% from the field and 82% from the free-throw line. Now, joining a new team opens up the possibility for him to be utilized more often and hopefully develop into the player we expected out of college.