Washington has finally done it. Weeks of a rumored trade, rumors that began with the onset of Gilbert-gate, have finally come to a close, as the Wiz sent Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and DeShawn Stevenson packing. Their trade partner? Mark Cuban’s Dallas Mavericks, who in return sent Josh Howard, Drew Gooden, Quinton Ross and James Singleton to the nation’s capital.
So what did each team get out of the trade? According to Yahoo!’s Adrian Wojnarowski, “The trade strengthens the Mavericks’ frontline while giving the Wizards greater financial flexibility to rebuild in the wake of Gilbert Arenas’ suspension.”
Mark Cuban had been upset with Dallas’ end to the first half of the season and had hinted at coming changes. Howard had been struggling, and the change in scenery may help him refocus his fire. Landing Caron Butler will help the All-Star Weekend hosts on D, and Brendan Haywood will bolster their frontcourt. As for Washington, they’re trying to flip the script on a their current roster, and saw this as a step in the correct direction.
According to many, Washington is still looking to make changes, possibly one involving All-Star Antawn Jamison. Now people in Dallas can go back to focusing on the Dunk Contest and All-Star Game.
