The Washington Wizards are hoping to make one big push for a possible playoff berth after the reported signing of veteran guard Marcus Thornton.

Thornton becomes the latest player to join the Wizards fold after Markieff Morris. The Wizards acquired Markieff Morris back in February.

The 28-year-old Thornton was waived by the Houston Rockets last Feb. 26, following a botched trade deal. He was originally included in that three-team deal with Donatas Motiejunas involving the Detroit Pistons and the Philadelphia 76ers.

The trade was voided after Motiejunas failed a physical and Thornton never played again before being eventually waived.

Ensuring Playoff Eligibility

Thornton ended up negotiating for a buyout with the Rockets before the March 1 deadline, and will now try to help out the Wizards’ cause. Though the Wizards currently occupy the 10th spot, stringing up some wins could help them make the magic 8.

Thornton, who averaged 10 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 18 minutes of action for the Rockets this season, can help out in the backcourt. Though it may not be immediate, he can deliver or improve on those numbers should he be able to adjust to the system of head coach Randy Wittman.

Miami Heat was an Option for Thornton

The Wizards weren’t the only team Thornton was interested in. The Miami Heat were another possible landing spot with reports that Thornton was considering going to South Beach.

The Heat could have used a player like Thornton to beef up their depleted backcourt though Goran Dragic and Dwyane Wade seem to be playing with renewed vigor.

Last Piece for One Last Push

Thornton joins a couple of new faces in the Wizards' roster following the acquisition of Markieff Morris and J.J. Hickson. Morris was acquired by the Wizards from the Phoenix Suns in a deal that involved Kris Humphries, De Juan Blair and a future first round pick at the NBA trade deadline.

Hickson followed Morris a couple of days and signed after being bought out by the Denver Nuggets. The two high-profile forwards could provide the added depth for the Wizards’ frontcourt while Thornton adds more flexibility to an already talented backcourt, which includes John Wall, Bradley Beal and Ramon Sessions.

The Unfortunate Casualty

As with other teams who have beefed up their roster with new players, there will be casualties. To make room for Thornton, the Wizards had to waive 31-year-old Gary Neal.

Neal has been slowed down by injuries and has not been seen since February 6. He is expected to miss three more weeks as he deals with a quad and hip injury.

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