WIZARDS GET VETS OKAFOR AND ARIZA
The Washington Wizards acquired center Emeka Okafor and swingman Trevor Ariza from the New Orleans Hornets for forward Rashard Lewis and a 2012 second-round draft pick.
What does it give the Washington Wizards
This is a risky trade for Washington. The upsides: they don't have to pay the massive buyout for the aging and declining Lewis, while Okafor and Ariza are proven vets who bring leadership and (if healthy) production to a young ballclub. The downside is Okafor is very injury-prone and Ariza is very inconsistent. Look for both to start (Okafor at center, Ariza at small forward) and possibly make Washington a playoff club. This also suggests {P Andray Blatche} won't be a starter in 2012-13.
What does it give the New Orleans Pelicans
Lewis clearly isn't in New Orleans' plans (probably not even for next season), and if they waive him before July 1st they save a lot of money here by moving Okafor's and Ariza's longer-term deals. With {P Anthony Davis} all but a lock to be their pick in June 28's draft, the Hornets have an immediate replacement for Okafor (and promising young {P Al-Farouq Aminu} can step in for Ariza). The extra cash can help them re-sign {P Eric Gordon} and probably a veteran free agent or two, and they can use the extra second-round pick to add a long-range prospect or role player for their rebuilding push.
Fantasy impact
