Immediately after the Wizards landed the third overall pick in the 2012 draft lottery, owner Ted Leonsis adamantly stated the team wouldn't be trading the pick. But it seems that hasn't stopped rival clubs from inquiring on its availability, just in case. According to Michael Lee of the Washington Post, the Wizards have been fielding calls this week from teams interested in moving up to No. 3, possibly to select Thomas Robinson.
As ESPN.com's Chad Ford points out (via
Twitter), Charlotte and Washington seem to have engaged in a game of draft chicken at this point -- the Wizards likely covet
Bradley Beal at No. 3 and are concerned the Bobcats will trade the No. 2 pick to a team like Cleveland that will swoop in to draft Beal. The Bobcats, meanwhile, reportedly have Robinson atop their list of options at the No. 2 pick, but are said to be shopping their lottery selection. By talking to teams interested in Robinson, the Wizards could make the Bobcats nervous that their preferred prospect may not be available if the 'Cats were to trade down to No. 4.
A trade of Charlotte's second overall pick may be a long shot anyway. According to Lee, the Bobcats are trying to convince potential trade partners to take on Tyrus Thomas and his hefty contract as well. One Western Conference executive that spoke to Lee doesn't think any clubs will be willing to take on Thomas, who still has three years and $26MM+ remaining on his deal.
