The Wizards have reportedly added yet another wing to their roster in signing former Indiana Pacers forward Rasual Butler to a non-guaranteed contract.
Free agent swingman Rasual Butler has reached agreement on a non-guaranteed deal with the Washington Wizards, league source tells RealGM.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) September 22, 2014
This is essentially a training camp invitation that could morph into something more. Remember: the Wizards have one open roster spot. If they fill it, it'll be with someone that can eventually be released if the additional roster flexibility is needed.
Butler played sparingly for the Pacers in the last campaign, playing just 378 minutes in 50 games. He shot decently well in those appearances, hitting 46.4 percent from the field and 42 percent from beyond the arc.
For Butler, though, even being in the league last year was a victory in itself. Having been bounced out of the league for all of 2012-13 after two consecutive subpar season, it would be natural to expect a player of his caliber and age to be gone from the league for good. But Rasual bounced back, swallowing his pride and playing in the D-League for the Tulsa 66ers before hooking on with Indiana. He fits the Wizards playbook: solid vet, willing to accept any role and affordable.
In addition, Post beat reporter Jorge Castillo is reporting that two additional players were seen working out at the Verizon Center today.
Jamaal Franklin and Vander Blue working out at Verizon Center. They haven’t been invited to camp, but #Wizards have spots to work with.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgeccastillo) September 22, 2014
Blue played in three games at shooting guard for the Celtics last year. Franklin is the more intriguing prospect, having been considered by some to be a first-round talent coming out of San Diego State. Franklin didn't see much time for Memphis last year, and the Grizzlies, needing the cap space and roster spot, let Franklin go after a poor summer league campaign.
It remains to be seen if the Wizards will offer either player a spot in training camp. Xavier Silas and Damion James are also expected to sign.