Washington Wizards not looking to trade young core

The Washington Wizards have begun the new season with a 6-10 record but their front office is not looking to make any drastic trades, according to several reports.

Earlier this month, there were several rumours that coach Scott Brooks would push for a complete overhaul of the team if it failed to improve to a .500 record ahead of February's trade deadline. However, CSN Mid-Atlantic has reported that a trade is unlikely any time in the near future, contrary to earlier reports.

"The chances that the Wizards make a roster move now? Despite a sub-.500 record, that still remains very unlikely. League sources told CSNmidatlantic.com that the Wizards had discussions about Archie Goodwin, released by the New Orleans Pelicans, but that didn't go anywhere."

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Washington Wizards waiting for Ian Mahinmi...

The report further added that team president Ernie Grunfeld is hoping that offseason acquisition Ian Mahinmi will help the team improve its defence -- which has been the team's biggest weakness thus far.

During the summer, Mahinmi left Indiana Pacers and joined the Wizards on a four-year, $US 64 million ($AU 85.6 million) contract but has appeared in only one game thus far. The Wizards front office was heavily criticised during the summer for spending so much on a back-up centre.

The Wizards will be eligible to shop newly signed contracts after the Dec. 15 trade restriction expires. There should be a lot of trade speculation around the league, seeing as 120 new contracts were signed over the summer. Many of these players could find new homes prior to the Feb. 23 trade deadline.

It's highly unlikely that Wizards trade either John Wall or Bradley Beal. However, the likes of Andrew Nicholson, Trey Burke and Otto Porter Jr. could be packaged if an All-Star calibre player is made available. Also, rookies Sheldon McClellan, Danuel House Jr., and Daniel Ochefu could be used for filler in deals.

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