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UPDATE: It looks like Monroe is headed to Boston. So much for that!
Greg Monroe agreed to a contract buyout with the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday where he was on a salary of nearly $18 million. The 6’11 center averaged 10.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists for Phoenix and the Milwaukee Bucks after a midseason trade that involved Eric Bledsoe.
Monroe is now a free agent, and any team besides the Suns and Bucks could sign him. Furthermore, David Aldridge of TNT reported on Thursday morning that the Wizards are interested:
Add Spurs, Wizards to growing list of playoff teams interested in Greg Monroe post-waivers. Celtics and Pelicans among others.
— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) February 1, 2018
The Wizards have extra roster spots available at the moment, so it is possible that they could take a flier on Monroe. He’s a strong rebounding presence (12.4 rebounds per 36 minutes) and a great scorer around the rim. With John Wall out for the next couple months, Monroe could also contribute in the passing game, where he averages 3.9 assists every 36 minutes.
Finally, Monroe played at Georgetown University so it will be a homecoming of sorts. But he didn’t play for the Hoyas (2008-10) when Otto Porter did (2011-13).
The downside of Monroe is that the Wizards already have two traditional big men in Marcin Gortat and Ian Mahinmi. There probably isn’t enough playing time for all three.
If Monroe signs with Washington, presumably for the minimum, then the Wizards will probably look to trade Gortat, who is still effective and on a reasonable contract that expires next season.
It remains to be seen whether the Wizards become a serious contender for Monroe’s services in the coming days. But it’s good to see that Washington isn’t standing pat as we head toward the trade deadline on February 8.