The trade between the Washington Wizards and Phoenix Suns became official Monday morning, sending longtime veteran Trevor Ariza to the nation's capital in exchange for Austin Rivers and young wing Kelly Oubre Jr.
President Ernie Grunfeld praised Ariza, who played for the Wizards for two full seasons (2012-14) during his journeyman career in the league
“Trevor has been one of the most effective, efficient and versatile players at his position for over a decade,” said Grunfeld in a team release. “We are obviously very familiar with the leadership and experience he brings as one of the league’s most respected professionals and look forward to welcoming him back to the team.”
Ariza had arguably the best season of his career in 2013-14, when he posted 14.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.9 steals per game through 77 starts in his 10th year.
The 3-and-D specialist shot a decent 45.6 percent from the field and a studly 40.7 percent from downtown — the only season in which he has surpassed the 40 percent threshold.
The Wizards are hoping some remnants of prime Ariza are still left in his 33-year-old body, despite a clear decline in his shooting efficiency since he last played for Washington.
Wizards teammates like John Wall and Bradley Beal are encouraged to see him return, and above all, they're hoping he can bring a championship-caliber mentality to a struggling team that has clawed to a 12-18 record to start the season.
Ariza is averaging 9.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.5 steals per game through 26 appearances in this 2018-19 season.
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