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The Wizards are trading Sheldon Mac and cash considerations to Atlanta in exchange for a protected second round pick, according to multiple reports.
This move is more about the finances than X’s and O’s for both sides. Mac won’t play for the Hawks this season due to the ruptured Achilles he suffered in the preseason, and it’s unlikely Washington will ever see the pick from Atlanta, since it’s heavily protected.
The second-round pick from the Hawks for Sheldon Mac is heavily protected, per source. Wouldn't count on the pick ever conveying. Trade opens roster spot, saves luxury tax $$.
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) February 8, 2018
This move was strictly about lowering Washington’s luxury tax bill. While Mac had shown some nice signs of growth at Summer League and early in the preseason, it just didn’t make sense for Washington to pay extra money for someone who wasn’t going to contribute this season.
Washington now only has 13 players under contract, which means two slots are open to sign free agents who get bought out of their contracts later this month.