Bullets Forever: All Posts by John Morrow"Ain't No Luck"https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48097/BulletsForever-fv.png2022-07-27T11:00:00-04:00https://www.bulletsforever.com/authors/john-morrow/rss2022-07-27T11:00:00-04:002022-07-27T11:00:00-04:00Part 3: Who could be some of the Wizards’ trade targets?
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<img alt="NBA: Orlando Magic at Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Np_Pmq-LmnJSSk2yPRJbRfC8m3Q=/0x46:3838x2605/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71178492/usa_today_13861831.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Today, we will finish our discussion on potential Wizards trade targets.</p> <p id="bATDXB">Our third and final piece of a series evaluating twelve players that the Wizards could consider taking a “big swing” to return in a trade. These are less likely candidates but are worth discussing.</p>
<p id="FSy6dP">For our previous two parts, click on the links below:</p>
<aside id="b7vzd5"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Who could be some of the Wizards’ trade targets? ","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/7/25/23272163/washington-wizards-trade-targets-part-one-kevin-durant-john-collins-shai-gilgeous-alexander"},{"title":"Part 2: Who could be some of the Wizards’ trade targets?","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/7/26/23274876/part-2-who-could-be-some-of-the-wizards-trade-targets"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="fG2BNQ"><strong>Kyrie Irving</strong></h2>
<p id="WEu7cO">Overall Acquirability: Very Likely</p>
<p id="2NXXfo">Cost of Return: Fairly Low for Talent Level</p>
<p id="xHk6dP">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Questionable</p>
<p id="Km4aa3">Contract: 1 year, $36.94M</p>
<p id="BcpWaj">Nets Want: Immediate contributor(s) to keep competing </p>
<p id="4ryQDt">It is no secret that Irving is on the market as an available player for trade. Despite his overwhelming talent offensively with ball handling and shooting, he has not proven that he can elevate a team in the playoffs that doesn’t include LeBron James. His defense is sometimes passable and he can make plays for others when it suits him.</p>
<p id="mJFfNb">On the court, an Irving and Beal backcourt could be the best in the league on the offensive end. Both can score at all three levels, shoot capably, and pass too. Defensively, they would bleed points. But, the two together paired with Porzingis in the frontcourt would lead the Wizards to one of the best offenses in the league.</p>
<p id="jGaysw">I’ve listed Irving because his trade value is assumed to be quite low. A trade for Irving would be the definition of high risk due to his propensity to not play at times, injuries, and vaccination status while also paired with contractual and age concerns. The Wizards very likely will not consider this deal. But it qualifies as a big swing and if the season gets off to a slow start, the odds of them thinking about it go up – much like the want to trade for Porzingis did last season.</p>
<p id="o3pOk4">Potential Cost: Will Barton, Kyle Kuzma, Vernon Carey Jr., Isaiah Todd</p>
<h2 id="tRkJIj"><strong>Jonathan Isaac</strong></h2>
<p id="VnLY4E">Overall Acquirability: Likely</p>
<p id="NJWycY">Cost of Return: Low</p>
<p id="LjKqD9">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Good</p>
<p id="CAbkZ4">Contract: 3 years, $52.2M. Only $7.6M guaranteed in 2023-2024, non-guaranteed in 2024-2025</p>
<p id="trkvMx">Magic Want: Shooting, better fits around Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner</p>
<p id="MIDPhT">The plan with this list was not to highlight players who have played significantly less than they have sat on the bench over the past two years. But, when considering how to substantially improve the talent level for the Wizards, it is going to take a high level of risk. Isaac is a very dicey proposition indeed.</p>
<p id="Inolqz">Offensively, he profiles as average at best. He’s shown limited shooting ability, won’t be a player to create off of the dribble and mostly relies on athleticism off of cuts and rebounds to generate his points. Defensively, he was a joy to watch prior to consecutive knee injuries. Standing 6 foot 10 with great agility, instincts, and verticality he flashed major potential on this end.</p>
<p id="s97eDI">His defense, and his contract, are the main reasons to pursue Isaac. The Wizards lack the personnel and mindset to play enough quality defense to become a better overall team. Isaac may provide a big boost. Better yet, his contract modification following his injuries has built in a way for a team to exit the partnership if injuries continue or he comes back a lesser player. If he looks like the player he did prior to the unfortunate injuries, it is a good contract for a player like him. If not, they are out of it pretty easily.</p>
<p id="AiiXM8">Likely Cost: Corey Kispert, Will Barton, 2nd round pick</p>
<p id="6WLZ2a"><em>*Note: apparently Isaac had another procedure, but on his hamstring following last season. ACL surgeries often involve using part of the hamstring so this is concerning. I learned this after submitting this for editing and think it’s probably even more unlikely that the Wizards entertain this move now with this knowledge in mind.</em></p>
<h3 id="NehNFB">The following players are names to consider further down the line. Each could come available during the season.</h3>
<h2 id="RaoHqr"><strong>Andrew Wiggins</strong></h2>
<p id="xGs1C5">Overall Acquirability: Somewhat Unlikely</p>
<p id="3yYzfs">Cost of Return: Questionable</p>
<p id="FmtJUj">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Good</p>
<p id="2HLmGX">Contract: 1 year, $33.62M</p>
<p id="3LJdn6">Warriors Want: Save money but playoff rotation players</p>
<p id="8zX5yt">The Warriors just broke an all-time record with a $170.3M luxury tax payment on top of the payroll commitment, leaving them with $346.2M paid. That large payment was a major factor in the Warriors winning the NBA Championship but ownership has to be debating whether this type of spending is repeatable. The sentimental value of longtime Warriors and repeat champions Steph Curry, Draymond Green and Klay Thompson leaves Wiggins as a clear favorite to be traded to save money. Him being in a contract year makes it more likely.</p>
<p id="aIR9tN">The Wizards have lacked a true small forward with two-way capabilities for a number of years. A perimeter defender of Wiggins’ standing would be a fine addition, and he can contribute offensively inside and out, albeit on an inconsistent basis. Wiggins turns 28 just after the All-Star break but appears to have lost little to no athleticism over the years. There should be concern about how well Wiggins would play in the Wizards environment compared to the Warriors, i.e. one that has about the best leadership in sports. But the talent and fit make him worthwhile for D.C. Matching salary is a challenge, though. Kuzma and Avdija seem like good fits for the Warriors. But that leaves them around $7.3M short of what is needed to match for a trade. I would guess Delon Wright is suitable as a third piece for Golden State, assuming that they see no need for Will Barton with Jordan Poole and Donte Divincenzo already coming off the bench. Morris is available sooner but Wiggins could be a name to watch mid-season when trade restrictions are lifted.</p>
<p id="WosTZC">Likely Cost: Kuzma, Monte Morris (or Delon Wright after mid-December), Avdija</p>
<h2 id="cBtR4J"><strong>Deandre Ayton</strong></h2>
<p id="EC2XXo">Overall Acquirability: Likely</p>
<p id="q2CzXz">Cost of Return: Medium</p>
<p id="TIPAtQ">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Questionable</p>
<p id="mCSDDL">Contract: 4 years, $132.93M</p>
<p id="m1wNUY">Yes, Ayton just re-signed for a massive four year deal in Phoenix. No, it didn’t appear that Phoenix was excited to match the offer sheet presented to Ayton by the Indiana Pacers. Likely, Phoenix identified that it was going to be difficult to return fair value for Ayton with Base Year Compensation only allowing them to take back 50% of the number that Ayton would’ve signed for in a sign & trade. So, either Ayton plays and behaves well for the Suns, or he is on the market in mid-December.</p>
<p id="dISUOP">He would be a highly-debated fit on the Wizards but consider me in the camp of those who think he would be a fine fit. He’s shown he can defend the rim and perimeter, is elite in the pick and roll and at finishing on the interior, and has flashed room for growth with outside shooting. He’s young and has performed on the biggest of stages; plus he only turns 24 years old on July 23rd.</p>
<p id="gZn5L6">I’d be keeping a close watch here. Phoenix will be cutting costs this season as their luxury tax bill is far larger than it’s ever been and Robert Sarver does not have a great track record of spending.</p>
<p id="8zM3d8">Likely Cost: Kuzma, Barton, Daniel Gafford and Wright/Morris with a lightly protected first round pick for Ayton, Landry Shamet, Torrey Craig.</p>
<h2 id="4nkn7J"><strong>RJ Barrett</strong></h2>
<p id="HoAi7M">Overall Acquirability: Low</p>
<p id="IzOCwt">Cost of Return: High</p>
<p id="PqZx4v">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Very Good</p>
<p id="1I5sqh">Contract: 1 year, $10.9M then restricted free agency</p>
<p id="7Hgus3">Knicks Want: More proven talent to win now </p>
<p id="k8Xu28">Barrett is an important piece of what New York is trying to build. He is an adept defender, solid athlete and passer, and has shown an affinity for getting to the rim. His outside shooting leaves some to be desired and his efficiency has been below average so far in his career. He’ll be a restricted free agent after this season.</p>
<p id="uTAfQZ">He hasn’t yet proven to be a surefire player to pay on a long term deal at a high cost of a max contract or over $25M per season. Depending on how negotiations go, it could provide opportunity for the Wizards. Let’s say the Knicks acquire Donovan Mitchell for a package centered around picks. If that happens, Barrett isn’t a great fit next to two ball dominant guards.</p>
<p id="6aGFZT">He would provide the Wizards with needed defense on the wing and Porzingis with Kuzma or whoever is at power forward provides far, far better spacing than a Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle frontcourt that Barrett currently has to drive into. The Knicks have plenty of unwanted contracts: Randle, Evan Fournier, Derrick Rose. Might the Wizards be able to swing a deal for Barrett while taking back some bad money? Odds are, the Knicks come to an agreement on an extension with Barrett but this bears monitoring.</p>
<p id="w2tjxF">Potential Cost: Kuzma, Barton, Rui Hachimura, Kispert for Randle & Barrett</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/7/27/23274880/washington-wizards-trade-targets-part-3-kyrie-irving-jonathan-issac-andrew-wigginsJohn Morrow2022-07-26T11:00:00-04:002022-07-26T11:00:00-04:00Part 2: Who could be some of the Wizards’ trade targets?
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<img alt="NBA: Washington Wizards at Philadelphia 76ers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/QCYFYnHYqri3lcxjhCF2VyV8mfQ=/0x0:3777x2518/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71174316/usa_today_16196664.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="8kDuuA">Continuing our series, we will look at four additional names for the Wizards to consider in the trade market. For Part 1, <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/7/25/23272163/washington-wizards-trade-targets-part-one-kevin-durant-john-collins-shai-gilgeous-alexander">click here.</a></p>
<h2 id="qazA3M"><strong>Pascal Siakam or OG Anunoby</strong></h2>
<p id="rRUQgW">Overall Acquirability: Low</p>
<p id="01ZFWZ">Cost of Return: High</p>
<p id="u2EaK8">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Great </p>
<p id="tvlIpJ">Contract: 2 years, $73.3M for Siakam and 2 years, $36M then player option for Anunoby</p>
<p id="y1hvd7">Raptors Want: Increased odds at winning now </p>
<p id="QwdsKT">I’m pairing Siakam and Anunoby together because they are both excellent defenders that are ideal fits for the Wizards. When considering potential trade partners, the Raptors have to be near the top of the list. D.C. has too many young/flawed forwards and wants to consolidate, and these two are ideal upgrade targets. They also both only have two years left under contract and inflection points seem to be coming soon. Does Toronto want to pay Siakam a large sum for his years after age 30? </p>
<p id="wlao88">Anunoby’s extension talks are non-existent because he’s underpaid, and he’ll likely need to hit free agency after declining his player option in the summer of 2024 - because Toronto is limited in how much they can offer in an extension. There are reasons for the Raptors to consider moving either he or Siakam, especially with Scottie Barnes debuting in a stellar way last season.</p>
<p id="gDPQVt">Barnes, who likely plays best at power forward, joins a crowd with the Raptors also employing Thaddeus Young and Porter Jr. as veterans, with a number of undersized bigs in Precious Achiuwa, Chris Boucher and Khem Birch who can fill in next to a true center at times. Masai Ujiri and the Raptors leadership doesn’t seem likely to want to get younger so what would they value from the Wizards?</p>
<p id="FerD0H">I’m having a hard time seeing who they would prefer, if anyone. Supposedly, they spoke with Dallas regarding Kristaps Porzingis a few times last season but if the Wizards then acquired him for the low cost exchange that they did, then it doesn’t seem like Toronto places much value on him. A trade for Anunoby is easier from a salary-matching perspective but finding an appropriate combination from the Wizards is difficult.</p>
<p id="iXHPdJ">Potential Cost for Siakam: Kyle Kuzma, Will Barton, Johnny Davis, Corey Kispert, one future unprotected first, one lightly protected first</p>
<p id="AvMnrk">Potential Cost for Anunoby: Kuzma, Deni Avdija, Kispert, one future unprotected first, one lightly protected first. Wizards take back Khem Birch too.</p>
<h2 id="kYAB0A"><strong>Donovan Mitchell</strong></h2>
<p id="vKJj4q">Overall Acquirability: Questionable</p>
<p id="HLXGYX">Cost of Return: Very High</p>
<p id="DwSq7k">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Poor</p>
<p id="LOhEJi">Contract: 3 years, $97.8M. Then player option</p>
<p id="K103Gj">Jazz Want: Premium rebuilding assets</p>
<p id="mmzQpI">Mitchell seems headed to New York so we won’t spend too much time discussing the prospects of adding him. He, much like Bradley Beal, proved early in his career that he could be a very good defender but has since either lost interest or lost a few steps on that end, potentially because of his heavy offensive burden. Nonetheless, he is young, under contract, and a proven All-Star level player. The Wizards have to sniff around this circumstance but I doubt there’s a deal to be made.</p>
<p id="oB48Sp">Potential Cost: Barton, Rui Hachimura, Avdija, Davis, Kispert and unprotected firsts in 2025 & 2027, top 5 protected in 2029 and unprotected swap rights in 2026 and 2028. Wizards take back Rudy Gay.</p>
<h2 id="dayroO"><strong>Ben Simmons</strong></h2>
<p id="KGE4cT">Overall Acquirability: Questionable</p>
<p id="RVzsr7">Cost of Return: Medium</p>
<p id="Qdk3Vg">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Great</p>
<p id="AgdQ6R">Contract: 3 years, $113.68M</p>
<p id="FvYlmW">Nets Want: Unknown - likely a more trustworthy but talented/high ceiling return</p>
<p id="bJKWvL">Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers lost to the Atlanta Hawks at the end of June, 2021. Since, much has changed in respect to Simmons’ standing in the NBA. He has admitted mental health issues, underwent major back surgery, and displayed quite a bit of immaturity in his exit from Philadelphia. His tenure in Brooklyn is off to a rocky start after a “will he or won’t he” scenario in the playoffs ended in him seemingly skipping out on suiting up as the Nets were swept in an embarrassing fashion.</p>
<p id="vop8jG">Pushing all of that aside, Simmons just turned 26, has three All-Star appearances to his name, is a fantastic passer and rebounder, and should be an annual contender for Defensive Player of the Year with an ability to guard every position on the court combined with great athleticism and transition ability.</p>
<p id="j0xRdT">When that player stands 6 foot 10, it makes a lot of sense to consider him as a Wizard. Combining those attributes with Beals’ play on the perimeter and Porzingis’ stretch 5 productivity, Simmons fits on the court very well. </p>
<p id="3jOWmT">The Nets <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/insider/insider/story/_/id/34274080/lowe-how-tyler-herro-polarizing-game-impacting-trade-talks-kevin-durant-donovan-mitchell">are wary of selling low on Simmons</a> but with the ongoing discussions of trading fellow star player Kevin Durant, it has to be something Brooklyn ponders due to the limit of acquiring only one Designated Rookie player via trade - because they did so with Simmons, they can’t add another player with that designation. If returning good but not great value on Simmons allows the Nets to return Donovan Mitchell or Bam Adebayo as a headliner in a Durant deal, the Nets have to think about it.</p>
<p id="JQ7FRt">Potential Cost: Kuzma, Barton, Avdija an unprotected first round pick and a protected first</p>
<p id="H2BXDX">Up next in part three, we will include some targets that are brought up less often than those we’ve looked at thus far.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/7/26/23274876/part-2-who-could-be-some-of-the-wizards-trade-targetsJohn Morrow2022-07-25T13:30:00-04:002022-07-25T13:30:00-04:00Who could be some of the Wizards’ trade targets?
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<img alt="NBA: Washington Wizards at Atlanta Hawks" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/En8x7Quxev5vVV_VTp-SAn92o7Y=/0x0:4492x2995/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71170886/usa_today_17076220.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Let’s go over some players whom the Wizards may try to make a swing for before the fall.</p> <p id="W7t53i">Ever since John Wall underwent heel surgery then subsequently tore his Achilles in February 2019, the Washington Wizards have been stuck in a state of transition. The 2018-2019 Wizards were a talented group that didn’t end up working. Injuries were the primary contributing factor but one could argue that there were too many rotation-level players and not enough consistent roles available for said personnel. Austin Rivers and Kelly Oubre Jr. were in contract years and trying to prove themselves, Otto Porter Jr. and Markieff Morris were incumbent starters that weren’t meeting expectations, and the vibes were off from the start.</p>
<p id="uqjfJW">After the disappointing beginning, the team correctly moved off of Porter, Rivers, Morris and Oubre Jr. with Jeff Green and Tomas Satoransky following them out in the ensuing offseason. The trade returns from those assets can be scrutinized (and should be) but it’s clear that the team transitioned then to a mini-rebuild. </p>
<p id="NSG4zo">The John Wall for Russell Westbrook trade following the 2019-2020 season resulted in a detour from the lowered expectations. In the campaign to follow and then also for last season, the Wizards made a more aggressive effort to win; even more so after the fortunate return from the trade of Westbrook to Los Angeles. Last season resulted in numerous ups and downs, but it’s undeniable that the overall talent level improved. Projecting forward for this year, the collection is better compared to the 2019 and 2020 teams, and comparable to the 2016-2018 Wizards. Many, myself included, think this should have been more of an organic process to improve with a true rebuild instead of a half measure but the team has now committed the super max contract to Bradley Beal and the path has been chosen. They want to win, and now.</p>
<p id="Pr8BjM">After experiencing the 2018-2019 season and then this past one, it has become clear to me as a fan that the Wizards should not count on “strength in numbers” and “quantity over quality” when it comes to team building. If they do, they are ignoring their own history. A team that has ten or eleven rotation players often doesn’t meet its potential. It seemed apparent last year with the glut of combo forwards and centers and it remains the case this year. Egos get in the way and it is human nature for players to think of their futures beyond the current season. If they aren’t receiving playing time or the best opportunities during their court time, the shift to thinking about their own priorities over the team likely happens. </p>
<p id="uUVDhw">The Wizards employ Kyle Kuzma in a very likely contract year, and Kristaps Porzingis plausibly will be playing in one too if he has a decently healthy and productive season. Add Rui Hachimura and Will Barton to the list of pending free agents, and it should lead to questions about the roster construction. As it stands, Barton’s past history with Wes Unseld Jr. should lead us to believe that he will start at small forward but regardless of who starts games, either Barton or one of the previous four first round picks will receive inconsistent or limited playing time. Between the contractual statuses and overabundance of rotation-level players, a recurring plea from Wizards fans is for leadership to consolidate and go “all-in” for a clear upgrade or star-level player to compete in a more serious way than the currently unfavorable odds to make the play-in round, much less the top six of the conference. </p>
<p id="UUZoAL">Considering this idea has been brought up ad nauseam since last offseason following the Westbrook transaction, I would offer that these types of trades are not as easy to find as we think. Open roster spots are valuable, and oftentimes teams are not in a position to take back three or even four players in return for one. Additionally, this class of player (stars) is usually not available unless there has been a compelling event between them and their current organization. </p>
<p id="lWIZrn">Despite this, and fully realizing that the likelihood of this type of transaction is significantly lower following the flurry of activity in the first two weeks of July, I have identified twelve players that the Wizards should be targeting for their big swing. </p>
<p id="5bW0we">We’ll consider the feasibility for the Wizards to generate a trade package that is acceptable to the opposing team. Also, we’ll think about what the other teams’ rosters look like and their respective goals moving forward. Plus, the trade partner’s theoretical willingness to trade said player and lastly, recent media rumors regarding that players’ potential availability. </p>
<p id="z8KTwO">In most cases, I’ll assume that Porzingis will remain on the team as he is not a desirable trade asset at the moment, but represents potential for the Wizards as a 3rd option if a star is acquired to pair with he and Beal.</p>
<p id="XA6RXX">Notes:</p>
<ul>
<li id="OtsZl5">Will Barton & Monte Morris can’t be traded until September 6th, just before the start of training camp. Barton very well could be a trade chip, Morris less so. But this timing would be difficult.</li>
<li id="fzlUk7">Delon Wright can’t be traded until December 15th.</li>
<li id="vLrnOS">Rui Hachimura is extension eligible, likely decreasing his trade value.</li>
<li id="3Su7WT">Same with Kyle Kuzma & Kristaps Porzingis.</li>
<li id="M6CUgY">Daniel Gafford counts only $1.8M this year before an increase to $12.4M in 2023, potentially impacting his trade value.</li>
<li id="9W6fms">A crucial component for many of these proposals will be altering the draft capital owed to the Knicks (by way of Houston from the Westbrook trade). As of now, the Wizards are unable to trade a first round pick until 2028. I will assume that this can be accomplished and the Wizards will have access to ample future draft assets to use as part of an exchange.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="WZMHoC"><strong>Kevin Durant</strong></h2>
<p id="Pw54ni">Acquirability: Questionable</p>
<p id="tBcaH8">Cost of Return: Very High</p>
<p id="Pm3e3W">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Good</p>
<p id="iSS6mg">Contract: 4 years, $197.66M</p>
<p id="wjAlcp">Nets Want: Either a great return to compete now or many unprotected picks & swaps</p>
<p id="k6Px32">Durant needs no introduction. We all know that he is a first class Hall of Famer. He turns 34 next season, but is under contract for four years. He’s battled injuries over the last three years but has retained first team All-NBA ability. He’d require the home run swing of them all as a return, but the Wizards would be foolish not to try.</p>
<p id="xEFFVq">Tim Bontemps of ESPN <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/34277696/ranking-some-biggest-trades-two-decades-how-inform-kevin-durant-future">outlined</a> the biggest star trades of the last two decades which provides us with an idea of what it will cost the Wizards to acquire him. My guess is that it will require three unprotected first round picks and two or three pick swaps, on top of enough positive value in matching salary.</p>
<p id="2hFsNb">Potential Cost: Kuzma, Barton, Davis, Kispert, Avdija, Gafford, unprotected firsts in 2025 & 2027, top 5 protected in 2029 and unprotected swap rights in 2026 and 2028. </p>
<p id="1qYpEF"><strong>Or</strong>, Porzingis, Avdija, Davis, Kispert and the same package of picks.</p>
<h2 id="IuseeU"><strong>John Collins</strong></h2>
<p id="ZH2djb">Acquirability: Very Likely</p>
<p id="zd41NQ">Cost of Return: Medium</p>
<p id="BJOioB">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Good</p>
<p id="qKCry7">Contract: 3 years, $75.4M. Then a player option in year 4.</p>
<p id="DJEZFE">Hawks Want: A better fit next to Clint Capela & Onyeka Okongwu</p>
<p id="jkOnZy">Collins has been much discussed as a player potentially on the trade block. He experienced nice success in his age 21 and 22 seasons with a 2019-2020 season culminating in a 21.6ppg and 10.1 rebound campaign. Over the past two years as the Hawks accumulated more talent around him, his boxscore numbers have dropped and there have been rumors of friction with Trae Young who plays a ball dominant style. Collins also likely is best splitting time between the power forward and center spots, and in the last two years he’s almost exclusively played next to Clint Capela or Onyeka Okongwu which has limited his best trait as a rim runner in the pick and roll.</p>
<p id="AhfPeb">Collins seemed content to take a step back in production throughout the teams’ 2021 playoff run to the Eastern Conference Finals to help overall team success. He has seemingly shown some defensive improvement to adapt to team needs.</p>
<p id="5vEQNg">For Washington, the main question is, how much better is he than Kyle Kuzma? Averaging over $25M in annual salary, the gap between the two for this season is $12M. That number likely shrinks on Kuzma’s next contract but will still likely be $4M - $8M more per year. Collins offensive profile is superior in efficiency both from 3-point range and inside the arc. Defensively, they’re similar but Kuzma is more versatile while Collins blocks twice as many shots. Kuzma, while inferior on offense, is easy to fit around. Collins is seen by most as a better, and younger, player but how much is that worth to Washington?</p>
<p id="kzgMz5">His fit next to Porzingis is of interest. I’m of the opinion that his rim running would fit well next to him but would that relegate one of them to spotting up more than they should? Neither are great passers (one advantage that Kuzma has over Collins) meaning that they will require good passing and the Wizards do not have much of this at the guard spots.</p>
<p id="OJRxSZ">Lastly, the trade package back to Atlanta is a tough one to build. The Hawks have three young forwards, AJ Griffin, De’Andre Hunter and Jalen Johnson. Bogdan Bogdanovic profiles as a superior bench guard to Will Barton. They have two quality centers. The Hawks seem to have a full rotation of players with one or two spare. If we assume Kuzma is in the deal, the Hawks likely decide between Johnny Davis or Deni Avdija as the additional player. Is that an appropriate cost from the Wizards? Both teams are right around the luxury tax line and matching salaries will be difficult unless both Davis and Avdija are included. I think that makes a trade less likely, but it requires a long look by the Wizards.</p>
<p id="1a2OHe">Potential Cost: Kyle Kuzma, Deni Avdija, Vernon Carey Jr. and two second round picks</p>
<h2 id="ql4slY"><strong>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</strong></h2>
<p id="pwpIOL">Acquirability: Low</p>
<p id="PiAEba">Cost of Return: High</p>
<p id="DM1Dil">Fit with Beal & Porzingis: Good</p>
<p id="IN4dEL">Contract: 4 years, $138.99M</p>
<p id="6ZBHZp">Thunder Want: Maximum return of assets or young players</p>
<p id="Hu4JTv">Gilgeous-Alexander would be a really nice fit next to Bradley Beal. His name has been brought up by media members on a few occasions as a player to watch on the trade market, but my guess is that he is really unlikely to be moved. From the Thunder’s end, they already have premium young talent at all positions. Gilgeous-Alexander fits their timeline and they don’t need more young, unproven players as they already have arguably too many. </p>
<p id="QlDEZk">I don’t see a possible trade without a third team involved and this requires a bit too many mental gymnastics to include it here. But he’s an obvious guy to <em>try</em> to trade for.</p>
<p id="o35o0x">We’ll have two more pieces of content soon with additional names for the Wizards to consider targeting.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/7/25/23272163/washington-wizards-trade-targets-part-one-kevin-durant-john-collins-shai-gilgeous-alexanderJohn Morrow2022-03-23T10:34:13-04:002022-03-23T10:34:13-04:00The Wizards’ long-term mediocrity is holding them back
<figure>
<img alt="NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ILbfo7UOzbczy8S0IfvTbPUfuLE=/0x0:5006x3337/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70661472/usa_today_17934384.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Wizards’ last five years, with Bradley Beal as their top player, have experienced a long run of mediocrity. They haven’t been good enough to make the playoffs in most of the past several seasons, but also not bad enough to get a top pick.</p> <p id="4C9f3O">The <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com">Washington Wizards</a> sit in 11th place in the Eastern Conference. 4.5 games from the final play-in game spot. They’re also the 11th worst team in the NBA based on the standings.</p>
<p id="SvwmPo">Objectively, the Wizards’ mediocrity is one of the worst positions to be in: not contending; but also not rebuilding. This spot in the standings is not unfamiliar to the Wizards, as seen over the last five seasons: </p>
<ul>
<li id="SxOaTp">in 2020-21: 14th worst record overall and 8th playoff seed, </li>
<li id="lxuX5G">in 2019-20: 8th worst overall and 9th seed, </li>
<li id="TbzI6n">in 2018-19: 6th worst overall and 11th seed, </li>
<li id="GuWSrE">in 2018-19: 14th worst overall and 8th seed.</li>
</ul>
<p id="t0vFRc">One could say that the Wizards’ draft choices given their lower draft positioning have been about average. Troy Brown Jr. was a miss in 2018, but the Wizards were able to acquire Daniel Gafford for him. While not necessarily thriving, we have seen reasons to believe that Rui Hachimura, Deni Avdija, and Corey Kispert are all rotation-level NBA players. After picking 9th, 9th, and 15th, this group does not represent a commendable track record, but the selections were at least base hits. In my opinion, it’s not the picks that were wrong, but the draft slots. </p>
<p id="68mLI3">The development of the recent picks and Gafford has been mixed, partly due to mismatched priorities from management and ownership. After Russell Westbrook was acquired last year, the goal shifted to maximizing that years’ team and to further appeasing its best player, Bradley Beal. Though the young players have played rotation-level minutes and shown flashes the last two seasons, we currently see a frustrating trend from coach Wes Unseld Jr now, with Hachimura and Avdija playing sometimes sporadic minutes despite a turn south in the standings from the team and with only a few games left.</p>
<p id="WItH27">With Beal injured and out for the season, we should think that it provides the Wizards a prime opportunity to evaluate these youthful players by scheming a slightly higher usage. We have seen it in moments. But thus far in March, we are seeing Hachimura and Avdija playing just over 20 minutes per game, while Gafford is just under. Kyle Kuzma and Kentavious Caldwell Pope are good enough players but it is fair to question why they are playing over 32 minutes per game in March on a team that is stationed where it is. Their upward mobility is limited.</p>
<p id="GU4AhB">It continues a trend that existed previously with coaching staffs under Randy Wittman and Scott Brooks. If given a veteran alternative, they chose that player more often than not over one who had a possibly longer future in Washington. It highlights a constant in D.C. with capping the team’s potential future by relying on veterans even if the team isn’t winning in the short term.t</p>
<p id="HseCHM">Worse yet, there are a number of decisions ahead for the top veterans that may present Wizards fans with a fair bit of fear, uncertainty, and doubt when considering the track record from ownership and management. If we look at the top half of the Wizards roster, it looks like this (<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2Ftag%2Fnba-player-tiers%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bulletsforever.com%2F2022%2F3%2F23%2F22989931%2Fwashington-wizards-mediocrity-nba-analysis-bradley-beal-tommy-sheppard-ted-leonsis" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">player tiers from The Athletic</a> and ages to start next season):</p>
<ol>
<li id="uejHrT">Beal (29) - Tier 3A or around 25th best player - soon to be free agent</li>
<li id="nbGdtO">Porzingis (27) - Tier 4B in 2021 or around top 80 - 1 year remaining then player option</li>
<li id="t27awq">Kuzma (27) - Tier 5 (should be 4B/top 80) - 1 year remaining then player option</li>
<li id="rbJA3h">KCP (29) - Tier 5 or top 125 - 1 year remaining</li>
</ol>
<p id="utYNc6">If we look at the group in a vacuum, it is a slightly worse than league average group both in quality of play and by age when considering top cores of four across the league. Kristaps Porzingis’ injury history should cause any and all fans to worry, but there is talent with this group. Unfortunately, the surrounding context in this case cannot be ignored.</p>
<p id="7liYNf">The contractual status of them screams that <em>right now</em> is the time to reset this roster. In relation to Beal, many agree that trading him should have been done in 2019 or 2020. Nevertheless, the team should not double down on a mistake by signing him to a monumental (see what I did there?) contract. </p>
<p id="Jf9fcZ">Beal is still, despite the injury, in high demand across the league and at age 29 is viewed as young enough to have other teams thinking of a five year run with him as a prominent second or third best player on a contender. Whether it be Miami, Philadelphia, Memphis, Toronto or Golden State, there is likely a very attractive return still available on the trade market for Beal. Whether by opting in and trading or by sign and trade, a good decision maker could capitalize on who and what comes back.</p>
<p id="TlkCie">Besides Beal, I am primarily concerned with the two players who hold player options for the 2023-2024 season. While Tommy Sheppard didn’t negotiate the contracts for Kuzma and Porzingis, the Wizards are, once again, stuck without leverage due to player options. This is a problem because it takes away the upside if these players outperform their contracts next season. If they do outperform, they are practically guaranteed massive raises, or they leave. </p>
<p id="GuhZvB">With Kuzma, it’s widely believed that he will opt out regardless. It is less expected with Porzingis but it wouldn’t be unheard of to see a player turn in a healthy and career-best performance in a contract year. If that occurs, the team will likely feel the need to pay Porzingis, who was just traded due to a long contract and injury concerns, another long contract into his 30s.</p>
<p id="iUoxm9">Kuzma’s value will likely never be higher than it was at this past trade deadline, but it should still be high at the draft and during this offseason. KCP on an expiring deal can be seen as a good deal for teams with ball-dominant first options and can be moved for at least neutral value. The wise strategy with Porzingis is likely to let him rehabilitate his value early next year but to then trade him at the first opportunity. </p>
<p id="YRN5cW">If the Wizards continue down this road with reaching the playoffs as the only goal, it will get expensive very quickly and it will not just be a one year problem, but a multi-year issue with players who will quickly be past their primes. </p>
<p id="hcS6kP">It is depressing to consider, but the Wizards are back in the seemingly comfortable and all too familiar zone of mediocrity. Yes, there is some potential with this group to improve. We saw it with Kuzma this year. The quartet of young players can get better and finally contribute to winning. The veterans are not all that old. <strong>Alas, NO, there is not enough to justify the investment in guaranteed dollars and years that it would take to keep this group together</strong>. </p>
<p id="LVUPds">This core does not profile as a title contender! Most NBA experts likely agree it isn’t even a playoff team. Deciding right now against long term deals for players in their late primes with an injury history (Beal and Porzingis) and to those who are coming off of career years (Kuzma) is what a prudent organization would do. </p>
<p id="SC0B2o">Regarding Bradley Beal, I think we can all understand why Sheppard has operated the way he has by not trading him. Beal is a very good player, in his prime, and he wanted and wants to win in D.C. The Wizards should’ve strived to make it work. As shown above, it just didn’t work out. It has now been four years with Beal as the lead player and it has resulted in one playoff victory in a series loss decided after only five games.</p>
<p id="OtYUiP">In order for the Wizards to exit this stalemate, the team should follow the recent examples set by the <a href="https://www.orlandopinstripedpost.com">Orlando Magic</a> or <a href="https://www.indycornrows.com">Indiana Pacers</a> and establish a potentially better way forward. No, future success is not guaranteed, and it certainly still isn’t for Indiana or Orlando. But the odds improve greatly! </p>
<p id="63YY0X">It is not too late to exit this precarious position, and this situation can be improved. It needs to happen this offseason or this cycle with long and inflated contracts for a mirage of winning will begin again. And it will end poorly for our favorite franchise that has not reached 50 regular season wins in over 40 years due to this mindset. </p>
<p id="z2nrEt">The Wizards can avoid mediocrity. But hard decisions need to be made and recognizing them is the first step. It is obvious to many who follow the NBA that this is not a veteran group to build around and overpay. Hopefully, Ted Leonsis and his organization will come to the realization that mediocrity will never do.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2022/3/23/22989931/washington-wizards-mediocrity-nba-analysis-bradley-beal-tommy-sheppard-ted-leonsisJohn Morrow2021-08-25T09:00:00-04:002021-08-25T09:00:00-04:00August Wizards Mailbag Part 2
<figure>
<img alt="2021 NBA Playoffs - Philadelphia 76ers v Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/B2DNBUPlTolBUvJCCK9hEVb4eOM=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69773120/1233207179.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Is Davis Bertans now an underrated player considering how low many fans are on him at the moment? | Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here is the second part of our August mailbag questions.</p> <p id="NFfXSw">Here is the second part of our mailbag questions. We’ll have a third and final part tomorrow. The first part can be found in the link below.</p>
<aside id="cahIJh"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"August Wizards Mailbag Part 1","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2021/8/24/22638707/august-mailbag-washington-wizards-rui-hachimura-kyle-kuzma-depth-chart"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="LUsll6">
<p id="IReOPA"><strong>Posters seem down on Davis Bertans and would like to move him, even though that would be selling low at this point. He got off to an awful start (maybe COVID-19 related with lack of gym time). He got better as the season progressed. When he got good playing time (20 to 29 minutes), he hit 41.6 percent of his threes all season, per Basketball-Reference splits. Plus, he can play stretch 4. Is he underrated at this point? (EDDC) </strong></p>
<p id="QTr45E"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>I’m not so sure I’d call him underrated, but underappreciated at this point. We all know how capable he is as a shooter. I would think we’ll see more of a 2019-2020 type season from him because there will be slightly less ball dominance and (hopefully) some more movement sets that allow him to shoot on the move. He’s underutilized just posting up in the corner. The challenge now is, he’s a one-way player at a spot where there are a few two-way types in Kuzma, Rui, and Caldwell Pope. I see him providing value, but closing games? There are better options.</p>
<p id="AXSgii"><strong>Ben Mehic: </strong>I think, in the right situation, Bertans could be underrated. There were times last season when he was unplayable - when he went scoreless, couldn’t find the basket, and contributed nothing defensively. Those issues pop up wth shooters, but they’re easier to deal with when you have other options. The problem was, the Wizards didn’t have those options. They had Isaac Bonga, Anthony Gill, or whomever else Scott Brooks was begrudgingly giving a chance. </p>
<p id="uLuTjF">Now if Bertans struggles, they can avoid some of those other painful concessions (like defense) by lessening his minutes for Kuzma, Deni, Rui, or any of the other capable options. That’s the beauty of having depth: it hides some of a player’s deficiencies and makes them appreciated again. Bertans is an elite shooter - and the Wizards, like the other 29 teams, need those.</p>
<p id="4TeydF"><strong>What is Shepard’s aversion to long, athletic players that can defend and can the Wizards really compete without them? (DCrez)</strong></p>
<p id="de9lC4"><strong>Morrow: </strong>Is there an aversion? Isaiah Todd seems to have been prioritized and he matches that description. I think that Hachimura has a longer wingspan and Avdija seems fairly athletic. Not many players in their first couple of years are good defenders. Hachimura took strides on defense last year, and I expect Avdija will this year too not having to guard the #1 option as often.</p>
<p id="d3uZ0A"><strong>Will Emma Meeseman play for Mystics this season? Unlike NBA, it’s not easy to figure out salary and cap implications. Is she a free agent yet? - EDDC</strong></p>
<p id="8cycc7"><strong>Albert: </strong>The <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/mystics/2021/8/24/22640556/washington-mystics-emma-meesseman-2021-wnba-season-status">question was answered yesterday</a>, so she isn’t returning.</p>
<p id="J1Y5Ob">The bigger question now is whether Meesseman ever returns to the WNBA, at least while in her prime. Washington is <a href="https://herhoopstats.com/salary-cap-sheet/wnba/team/washington-mystics-11eaecc7-3568-d154-b611-2362f5011b0b/">cap-tied for 2022</a> ($922,000+ in committed salaries already for a $1.379 million hard cap), so it will be difficult for Washington to re-sign her, even if she wanted to play a full season in 2022. So if Meesseman signs with another team next year, that would be a double-whammy, where the Mystics “lose her for nothing.” She is an unrestricted free agent.</p>
<p id="R5wefi"><strong>What type of offense will Wes Unseld, Jr. set up for this team? (CrazyPanda)</strong></p>
<p id="YwbBTJ"><strong>Morrow: </strong>Unseld has said he’ll fit the system to the players. He’s had experience in Princeton, motion-based, and pick-and-roll heavy offenses. I would think that we’ll see more structure than we did with Brooks. Hopefully, that means a little more ball movement and efficiency in the halfcourt. I like what he said about Beal being off-ball a little more.</p>
<p id="CP6Tm9"><strong>What do you think the Wizards’ opening day rotation will be? (MaybeNextYearWiz)</strong></p>
<p id="kgTHvQ"><strong>Morrow: </strong>Minutes will be tough to come by for Avdija and Neto. I see Kispert and Todd in the G League to start.</p>
<ul>
<li id="fMJUcX">PG: Dinwiddie 30, Holiday 18</li>
<li id="uwHVsp">SG: Beal 33, KCP 10, Neto or Holiday 5</li>
<li id="sMCIzo">SF: Kuzma 23, KCP 15, Avdija 10</li>
<li id="aAHIy4">PF: Rui 25, Bertans 23</li>
<li id="sZkwNH">C: Gafford 26, Harrell 22</li>
</ul>
<p id="6c8yDx"><strong>If the Wizards are to consider adding a third star to partner up with Spencer Dinwiddie and Bradley Beal, who are some realistic options? Are Pascal Siakam or Kristaps Porzingis options? (KingBigDaddy7th)</strong></p>
<p id="I9DlIY"><strong>Morrow: </strong>Siakam is the popular choice. It seems that Toronto is thinking ahead of drafting Scottie Barnes. I think the Wizards could do better than Porzingis with the big swing, but he’s one to think about. Ben Simmons should be a consideration now that Westbrook is gone. Karl-Anthony Towns if the Timberwolves are really going to sell off everyone. Domantas Sabonis of the Indiana Pacers is another name to watch.</p>
<p id="JKT0Ee"><strong>What would be the expectation for Avdija going into this season? What would be an indicator to his game that would have you guys say “Yeah he’s improved a lot this offseason”? (JayScott)</strong></p>
<p id="hT4a6d"><strong>Morrow: </strong>Tough call. I feel like his style of play should be a better fit both under Unseld and with the different personnel. But, minutes are really just not there to be given out right now. For me to watch him and think “yeah he’s really improved,” I want to see his passing, aggressiveness, and defense (without fouling!) really take a step forward. If those are his strengths, let’s see them more. I am not optimistic about the jumper but those areas where he was marginalized by standing in the corner last year, should be a bigger part of his game now.</p>
<p id="1l9IAJ"><strong>Kyle Kuzma can play SF. He has played it before. Despite KCP being better at the 3, Kuzma has the body. I’m leaning heavily on his stock from college more than his Lakers run, potential-wise. And I think he and Rui would actually fit well next to each other. Until he evidently isn’t, should Kuzma get the nod as the starting SF or at least compete with KCP to show he wasn’t just one of LeBron’s “whipping boys?” (BFFromTheGrave)</strong></p>
<p id="a5LtJi"><strong>Morrow: </strong>I’m with you! I think KCP can do more than he did in LA coming off the bench. Maybe KCP closes, but I too want Kuzma starting at the 3. KCP has shot a higher percentage but Kuzma’s volume is better and he made more threes last year than Beal and KCP.</p>
<p id="rA8fMU"><strong>A Healthy Westbrook/Beal finished the season 17-6 at a 63 win clip over the season with very marginal NBA players having huge roles. Vegas has the Wizards winning 34.5 games. The Russ trade is a MAJOR LOSS for this season. Should we worry? (jmpalomo)</strong></p>
<p id="9b5fl0"><strong>John Heiser: </strong>In basketball terms, we would refer to this projection of 63 wins as “cherry-picking”. Your question ignores is who those wins came against. The Wizard<a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/sports/nbcsports/strength-of-schedule-should-help-wizards-make-a-playoff-push/2638998/">s also had one of the easiest schedules</a> to close out the 2020-21 season as well.</p>
<p id="wuupRt">The Wizards’ streak was buoyed by healthy players, no doubt. It was not, however, a reason to extrapolate that roster’s ability over a full season, unless the NBA can promise a full season vs the worst teams in the league who are actively tanking.</p>
<p id="355xoV"><strong>Albert: </strong>One reason why the Wizards may only be pegged to win 34.5 games this season despite their depth is that they have a first-time coach and a lot of new player additions. Some franchises have gotten players to gel together very quickly. The Wizards haven’t, regardless of whether the coach’s name was Scott, Randy, Flip, or Eddie. So maybe some of the worry both you and I have is baked into the Vegas predictions.</p>
<p id="KwO6oq"><strong>Morrow: </strong>If you’ve followed the Wizards long enough, you should know that there always should be some worry. The national media has consistently called the trade a win for the Wizards. I’ll side with the majority on this.</p>
<p id="OUGYQ3"><strong>Why do you think Tommy Sheppard is as high on No. 31 pick Isaiah Todd as he appears to be? (BPYBAY)</strong></p>
<p id="cb5hwi"><strong>Morrow: </strong>The shooting potential, if I had to guess. He has a really smooth stroke with great length, and athleticism to get to his spots. </p>
<p id="JpIzEy"><strong>Should the Wizards make a move for Dillon Brooks? What would the cost be if the Grizzlies plan to move him this summer? (Email)</strong></p>
<p id="TIFyQz"><strong>Yanir Rubinstein: </strong>Very interesting question. At the time of the Oubre trade, he did come up in the Marshon Brooks - Dillon Brooks - Scott Brooks jumble...</p>
<p id="PH4qYa">My inclination would be to actually develop our own Dillon Brooks instead of shedding assets.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2021/8/25/22639840/august-mailbag-part-2-are-we-too-down-on-davis-bertans-deni-avdijas-future-moreJohn MorrowBenjamin MehicJHeiser3Albert Lee2021-01-19T12:00:00-05:002021-01-19T12:00:00-05:00Mailbag: Improving the Wizards, Mystics’ frontcourt rotation, more
<figure>
<img alt="Phoenix Suns v Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/s9spM99HwFbksF5J0fGGxxMrICg=/0x0:3648x2432/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68689202/1295985779.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Deni Avdija’s improvement could play a big role in whether the Wizards could be a long term contender in the coming seasons. | Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Our answers to your questions in this month’s mailbag are below.</p> <p id="RuT4dU">Thank you for the questions in this mailbag. Answers to selected questions are below. We will have our next mailbag in mid-February. Thanks!</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="4Isq3K">
<p id="iHxmCJ"><strong>What should be the goals for the Wizards after a bad start, Thomas Bryant’s injury, postponed games, Russell Westbrook’s injury etc.? How do you turn the season into a positive? (WhyNotTyler)</strong></p>
<p id="XriFPF"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>It’s early enough in the season for the goal to remain making the playoffs. I personally think getting the 6 seed and avoiding the play-in games is a serious long shot but it’s still very early. The difference, hopefully, between this Wizards team and the previous ones that were aiming to contend is that we should not see trades to only prioritize making the playoffs. </p>
<p id="3sAPbS">I think if the team continues to flounder and/or is just outside of playoff positioning, we’ll see a move into sell mode as opposed to using assets to fill gaps. The question then becomes if that leads to a trade of Beal, but I think that outcome will depend on if/when Beal requests a trade and how he does it.</p>
<p id="KCWGgV"><strong>How do you rank the top teams in the Eastern Conference, for the regular season and for potential playoff matchups? (WhyNotTyler)</strong></p>
<p id="Au5AKH"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>Here are mine:</p>
<ul>
<li id="P80y9a">
<strong>Contenders</strong> — Milwaukee, Brooklyn, Philadelphia, Boston</li>
<li id="6kMpqX">
<strong>Potential contenders if tweaks are made</strong> — Indiana, Miami, Toronto</li>
<li id="uWGvuX">
<strong>Play-in/one and done</strong> — Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington, Orlando, Chicago, New York</li>
</ul>
<p id="FtnICT">As for potential playoff matchups, it’d be hard to say at this point. The Wizards have a long way to go to even be considered competitive in a playoff series.</p>
<p id="w6lyGQ"><strong>Let’s say Tommy Sheppard doesn’t trade Bradley Beal. In two years he gives him the supermax because Beal makes the All-NBA team. What does the team look like at that point as far as salary cap and ability to compete? (athlete’sfeat)</strong></p>
<p id="kGlka0"><strong>Albert Lee: </strong>For the salary cap, the Wizards are tied until the 2023-24 season when Russell Westbrook’s contract comes off the books. As for competing, that’s a different matter.</p>
<p id="wDuieY">If the Wizards sign Beal to the supermax, the team will still have their hands tied in 2022-23 because they will still have Westbrook in the last year of his deal. Since that’s a player option and he would be 34 at that point, I think he<a href="https://hoopshype.com/salaries/washington_wizards/"> will take the option to get paid $47 million that season</a> and Washington will still have $100 million committed to multiple players.</p>
<p id="lYBWib">From 2023-24 on, the only players who figure to be in Washington are Rui Hachimura who would likely be in the first year of his second NBA contract where he may be earning a salary of around $15 million or so (if not more) while Deni Avdija would be in the last year of his four-year rookie contract if Washington picks up his options (and they probably will). So in 2023-24, Washington would likely have about $35-40 million in committed salaries which includes Davis Bertans’ fourth year of his five-year contract.</p>
<p id="GbKbWv">In terms of the Wizards’ ability to compete, it is going to be heavily dependent on how Hachimura, Avdija and Bertans improve and/or gel together with Beal and Westbrook in the next two seasons. If Hachimura or Avdija play like All-Stars, then that could really improve Washington’s prospects by 2022-23, but two seasons is still a long time from now.</p>
<p id="hWos98"><strong>What do you think the Mystics’ front court will look like next season and what will Myisha Hines-Allen’s role be in it? (Nancy Wimberg, email)</strong></p>
<p id="ZvNRe0"><strong>Albert: </strong>In short, I expect Elena Delle Donne, Tina Charles and LaToya Sanders back along with Hines-Allen. Beyond these four, it looks unclear.</p>
<p id="7esWE5">The Mystics will have EDD back because she is still on a multi-year contract and Tina Charles has pledged to return despite being an unrestricted free agent. Also, Sanders has to negotiate her next contract with Washington since she was suspended last year for opting out of the 2020 season along with Natasha Cloud.</p>
<p id="A3WzPq">The big question is if they can re-sign Emma Meesseman and/or Tianna Hawkins. Hawkins could return but I think she can earn a salary higher than the $71,400 she made last year. And if she comes back this season, Meesseman is going to miss significant time in 2021 for Women’s EuroBasket in June and perhaps the weeks after that to train for the Olympics a month later for Belgium. </p>
<p id="KgXFqA">As for how Hines-Allen fits in, this may be a hot take, but I think she will play a role similar to what Meesseman did in 2019 as the Mystics’ No. 2 scoring option, and perhaps No. 1. Last season, she was an All-<a href="https://www.swishappeal.com">WNBA</a> team mention and was among the most improved players in the league. </p>
<p id="n1diqm">Like our site’s writers struggled with in 2019 with Meesseman’s role on the team for that season, we may be struggling with whether Hines-Allen should start alongside Delle Donne or if Charles should instead. I’m looking forward to seeing what Hines-Allen will provide for Washington this summer.</p>
<p id="6GQcMU"><strong>Why didn’t Tommy bring in a solid front court defender in free agency to complement the offensive firepower from a season ago? Out of the suggestions, what Free Agents front court players do you think you would bring in before deadline to manage better lineups? (BFfromtheGrave)</strong></p>
<p id="UHZqz4"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>Great questions.</p>
<p id="jTqNmE">To your first question, I think the unfortunate reality is that the Wizards aren’t seen as a desirable destination for free agents at this time. That combined with Sheppard’s stance on Thomas Bryant as the incumbent starter played a role. Players who were paid more than Robin Lopez: Tristan Thompson, Serge Ibaka, Derrick Favors, Montrezl Harrel & JaMychal Green went to contenders. Christian Wood was out of the price range and Mason Plumlee on a three-year deal was undesirable. </p>
<p id="5bi5jp">Of those who were paid less, Nerlens Noel is a popular name but likely would’ve chosen playing in New York City over Washington. Marc Gasol valued playing for a contender. The Wizards passed on Hassan Whiteside and Dwight Howard, who are great talents but not good locker room guys. So the ones who we should question passing on were Bismack Biyombo, Willie Cauley-Stein, Noel, and Aron Baynes. </p>
<p id="99ul4L">When you think about it in that context, Noel seems like he would’ve been a good fit but I can live with the decision to sign Lopez. He’s been as advertised so far and has years of experience as a starter so with Bryant going down, the Wizards could be in a worse spot if some of the other names had been signed.</p>
<p id="oB8ZUx">To your second question, Potentially Dewayne Dedmon. I think we could see a marginal move to trade one of Jerome Robinson, Isaac Bonga or Troy Brown Jr. for a center, especially with all of them in flux for rotation spots. Personally, I hope they give Lopez & Wagner chances and don’t prioritize the next few months over the next few years.</p>
<p id="wQmcfJ"><strong>If the Wizards resume play, will Cassius Winston get a chance to contribute for the Wizards? - CDKA</strong></p>
<p id="qYjFb8"><strong>Yanir Rubinstein:</strong> I’d love for Cassius to become that next Fred VanVleet. </p>
<p id="pn5jf0">However, alas, given that the Wizards opted out of the G-League Bubble in Orlando. The only Go-Go players to participate in that bubble are Jordan Bell, Yoeli Childs, Caleb Homesley and Marlon Taylor (as Go-Go’s flex-affiliate players with the Erie BayHawks), and, finally, Scott Brooks’ win-now-or-be-fired status will likely lead him to rely on his vets at point guard...</p>
<p id="JCHiXw"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>I doubt it. There is a hierarchy under Scott Brooks and even with Westbrook missing time, Brooks values playing time for both Ish Smith and Raul Neto. His best chance would be if the Wizards continue to flounder and end up combining Ish Smith’s salary with Troy Brown Jr. or another player in a trade which could open up minutes.</p>
<p id="6b6P1k"><strong>Would you trade Russell Westbrook this season? The </strong><a href="https://www.postingandtoasting.com"><strong>Knicks</strong></a><strong> are still desperate for a star and the Clippers want to make a playoff push any way they can. (GreatWallofWizards)</strong></p>
<p id="LOnzZ3"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>Not until he regains value. They’re already one first round pick in the hole from acquiring him. Sacrificing more to move him again would be detrimental. </p>
<p id="KT9i2A">As for your trade ideas, regarding the Knicks, they would be one of the more likely teams to think about Westbrook. With the Knicks cap space they would also not have to send back matching salary like a majority of the league. The question would then become what salaries they want to dump and the answer likely would be Dennis Smith Jr., and maybe Kevin Knox or Frank Ntilikina but it would be a tough sell for them to take on the remaining years on Westbrook’s deal. The Knicks are well positioned to make a trade for a player who fits the timeline of their youth better, or to just sign a free agent this offseason.</p>
<p id="bONxkW">Then if Westbrook went to the Clippers, LA would need to match salary. That likely means Marcus Morris, Pat Beverley, Lou Williams & Patrick Patterson. Those are 3 rotation players and Westbrook’s fit is very questionable there. It’d likely require the Wizards including a young piece. I really do not see it, why would the Clippers want him? His fit is very questionable, he’s been injury-prone, and his openness to a lesser role is in doubt.</p>
<p id="OxjUen"><strong>Do you think Westbrook really fits his play style in the Wizards’ system? (GreatWallofWizards)</strong></p>
<p id="YEwKhi"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>So far, no. Once (if ever) the team figures out effective rotations that surround him with shooting and not redundant point guards who fill the same role (Ish Smith) I can see it working. So far, it has not been a fit offensively due to spacing concerns and his propensity for mid-range jumpers. </p>
<p id="NNmh18">Defensively, his rebounding is a plus but his inattention is a problem. It’s surprising for a player of his stature to continually lose focus on that end, especially as he’s one who’s pushing younger players and leading them.</p>
<p id="rKP6gE"><strong>Marcus Atkinson: </strong>Let’s start with this. What exactly is the Wizards playing style? They like to play more uptempo on offense in particular, but they often struggle between sharing the ball and playing heavy isolation with one of their star players. That’s pretty much been the team’s offense throughout Brooks’ tenure. And on defense, there is no semblance of any identity.</p>
<p id="Tx5mmr">So if we are looking at Westbrook, in particular on offense, he could fit if he is used right. He needs to be in a lineup surrounded by shooters and perhaps a pick and roll/pick and pop mate (i.e. Thomas Bryant). I think optimally even with Westbrook being hurt, you saw some flashes of what could work. What won’t happen no matter what the style is, is fixing the erratic shooting, the turnovers and the bad defense that exist with his game. That’s just a part of who he is, so while those things are damaging, none of those things would be fixed by putting him in a different system. </p>
<p id="1YCMYb">I think with the right lineups on offense and defense, he can be good and maybe at times a very good player, but he has been hampered by injury and poor coaching. I don’t know if we will see much change until one of those two things change.</p>
<p id="biUzmP"><strong>If it hasn’t already, how more guard-centric will the offense be with Thomas Bryant out for the season? (gavalon5)</strong></p>
<p id="B1XnJJ"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>I don’t really see how it can get more guard-centric. I think the current model will continue but Bryant’s touches will go instead to Rui Hachimura, and hopefully we see Deni Avdija with an increase in usage rate. </p>
<p id="8s1XIK"><strong>With Bryant out for the season, will players like Bertans, Avdija, or Neto get more involved in scoring? (gavalon55)</strong></p>
<p id="Ga5LwH"><strong>Albert: </strong>They will have to once the Wizards start playing again. Bertans and Neto have already had their scoring moments this season. But as John mentioned earlier, Avdija will have to be a bit more active looking for his shot. Right now, he’s a small forward version of a very young Emma Meesseman. We’ll answer questions on her later. </p>
<p id="Ow8jDj"><strong>You make it seem like 2021 is the Mystics’ “Last Dance” for a title. Do you really think they have to rebuild in 2022? (various emails)</strong></p>
<p id="MpxUIo"><strong>Albert: </strong>I hate to say it, but I do think it is the Mystics’ last dance. There are younger teams like the Seattle Storm and the Las Vegas Aces who probably have the upper hand against Washington in a playoff series as of now. </p>
<p id="NQ0ln4">Furthermore, Washington just doesn’t have much salary cap space this season. They also have to save long-term space for Ariel Atkins and Myisha Hines-Allen. They don’t have the cap space to sign veterans like Cloud, Meesseman, Aerial Powers, Hawkins and Sanders after this season unless some of them want to take a significant pay cut.</p>
<p id="i765Bk"><strong>If the Wizards knew that Victor Oladipo was on the trading block, couldn’t they have put together a package for him that was better than Indiana ended up getting for him? I would have preferred Victor over Russ. (Don Buerkle, email)</strong></p>
<p id="3EWuVD"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>I would think they knew he was on the trading block. But his fit with the Wizards was a question as he plays the same role as Bradley Beal. Also, the way that Westbrook was acquired was through John Wall’s salary and Indiana likely did not see value in acquiring Wall with Brogdon already in place as its point guard. </p>
<p id="IGHCJ4">Plus, Wall’s salary is quite higher than Oladipo’s so it would’ve been Oladipo plus other players for Wall. Unless the Wizards had included multiple firsts, it would not have happened, and that would have been a terrible decision for the Wizards with Oladipo’s pending free agency and his rumored intentions to join the <a href="https://www.hothothoops.com">Miami Heat</a> this offseason.</p>
<p id="iYImUu"><strong>Could Sam Cassell or Mark Jackson be potential head coaches for the Wizards? (Darin March, email)</strong></p>
<p id="CVDjJO"><strong>John Morrow: </strong>Jackson had a contentious exit from the <a href="https://www.goldenstateofmind.com">Golden State Warriors</a> and rumors have circulated throughout the internet about some of his behavior and actions through the years. It’s hard to know how much of it is based in fact, but it’s fair to question his fit. </p>
<p id="uzGchK">Cassell was very well-liked in D.C. but he did end up leaving on his own accord and he was passed up when Scott Brooks was hired. His connection to Beal holds value but I would hope the coaching hire, if and when Brooks is no longer the coach, comes down to more than trying to appease one player who could very well not be long for D.C. due to constant mismanagement around him. </p>
<p id="WA3y3B">That said, I could not agree more on the need for accountability on this team. Brooks either doesn’t do enough to try to hold players accountable on the defensive end or they have tuned him out. The vast majority of fans want a change, and for good reason.</p>
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https://www.bulletsforever.com/2021/1/19/22238155/january-mailbag-answers-washington-wizards-contention-prospects-mystics-frontcourtJohn MorrowYanir A. RubinsteinMarcus AtkinsonAlbert Lee2020-12-14T11:00:00-05:002020-12-14T11:00:00-05:00The young Wizards with a lot to prove this season
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<img alt="NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/R9X9kJfZOLZhKkBcAAHyYdq2nZk=/262x152:3058x2016/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68509793/usa_today_14698990.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Pool Photo-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Washington is still a young team. Here are the players who facing important times ahead.</p> <p id="piDC7U">The <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com">Washington Wizards</a> present an interesting dilemma coming into this season. Offseason moves kept the young team mostly status quo until the massive<a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/12/2/22149416/washington-wizards-houston-rockets-nba-trade-john-wall-russell-westbrook"> trade swapping John Wall for Russell Westbrook </a>which occurred just as training camp began. Now, it seems the team is even further committed to pushing for a playoff position this year, not only to appease franchise player Bradley Beal, but also to maximize the (most likely) best chance at a near-prime performance from Westbrook in his age 32 season as he comes in healthy after an all-NBA campaign.</p>
<p id="FzeyxI">Both players will be expecting that the team pulls out all of the stops to gain the best playoff seed possible for this year. They expect to show out in a playoff environment. We should be excited to see Beal back on a more competitive team, and to see how much of a difference Westbrook makes when compared to previous starting point guards Ish Smith, Isaiah Thomas and Shabazz Napier. </p>
<p id="SfwiCF">The Wizards brass, mainly General Manager Tommy Sheppard, have backed up the playoff-push mantra with their words. He <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS/status/1334883056432377859">spoke of a faster start</a> with Westbrook and has long been preaching patience leading up to this year and terming this iteration of the team as a retool instead of a rebuild.</p>
<p id="2iJcVs">On the other hand, the team employs seven players aged 23 or younger and most project to be at the least, in competition for rotation minutes. Decisions have been made to continue prioritizing the development of said young players, with Sheppard openly telling the media that prospective free agents were informed that Thomas Bryant is the <a href="https://twitter.com/RealQuintonMayo/status/1330971827770957824">projected starter at center</a>, and how outside of <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/11/18/21574129/2020-nba-draft-washington-wizards-select-dfdffdfd-no-9-overall">drafting 19-year old Deni Avdija</a>, the Wizards didn’t address a gaping hole at the wing.</p>
<p id="lM8vqS">Some see those decisions as missed opportunities. Could the team have found a youngish center to pair with and to push Bryant? Should the team have added a player at the wing who would’ve been better for a team with a higher playoff seed in mind? Many would say Nerlens Noel and either Mo Harkless or Glenn Robinson III were players in the free agent market that merited consideration. Another group of fans has more faith in the abilities for the young group to step up and seize rotation spots.</p>
<p id="Cy8VxC">I’m of the latter mindset and think it’s a good call to allow the existing players to sink or swim with their performances for a team that has higher expectations and pressure. In this piece we’ll take a look at four of those players who are in interesting positions going into year three of their careers. Each of them are in different stages of make-or-break scenarios due to contractual questions coming up. It’s imperative for the team to know what it has in these players so that it can make informed decisions on whether or not they help the Wizards with the aforementioned goals of maximizing this team’s potential for this year. </p>
<h3 id="kCYi7c">Jerome Robinson</h3>
<p id="ETa2LL">The Wizards must decide by December 29th, only six days into the season, whether to pick up a $5.34M team option on Robinson for the 2021-2022 season. Robinson was viewed by the majority as a <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/2018/8/8/17663144/clips-nation-roundtable-the-jerome-robinson-pick-clippers-nba-draft-2018-grade">draft reach at pick 13</a> for the LA Clippers in 2018, and what he’s shown in the NBA through two seasons has kept the jury out. </p>
<p id="DTHZkw">Robinson has shown to be okay as a defender in the league, but not much of anything else transferred over from his days at Boston College. The 3-point shot, a supposed strength, has been a weakness. He’s at 31.9% for his career and was at 34.9% for the Wizards in 21 games. For a player that infrequently makes plays for others, doesn’t rebound too well, and lacks size to guard a lot of wings, that level of shooting won’t cut it. The team has taken the stance, publicly, that these struggles have been due to confidence for the most part. </p>
<p id="CgPVPK">He has been included with the group of players who are <a href="https://twitter.com/FredKatz/status/1336385664422703114">competing to start</a> at the small forward spot on opening night, December 23rd. I’d guess he’s behind at least Isaac Bonga currently in that competition, and it’s fair to think that Deni Avdija and Troy Brown Jr. provide better fits as players being asked to defend true wings/forwards and to provide appropriate rebounding from that position. If we see this Jerome Robinson <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Sk7aOdsHDA">from college </a>more I think that he can establish himself either as a starter or key reserve. Either way, it’s a huge season for him and he does seemingly have fans in Scott Brooks and Tommy Sheppard. Guaranteeing over $5M for next year in just a few weeks to a player who’s shown as little as he has over two full seasons seems like a stretch. Robinson has a lot to prove if he wants to stick with the Wizards and also in the NBA.</p>
<h3 id="nTt7Qo">Moritz Wagner</h3>
<p id="wsCQl6">Wagner has been all over the place so far as a Wizard. He filled a need at backup center last year to start the season and opened eyes with his shooting and offensive play. His defense was not helping matters, and his fouling tendencies are incomprehensible, but he looked like a worthy investment averaging 12 & 6 last November while shooting 41% from 3. Then he hurt his ankle, and stopped shooting threes entirely after returning, and did not continue on an upward trajectory. He showed that he can finish well in the paint, but he was uninspiring after coming back from a high ankle sprain.</p>
<p id="n5Jncr">Much like with Robinson, the team must decide by December 29th whether to pick up a $3.89M option for the 2021-2022 season. After shooting 37% (15% from 3) and playing <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS/status/1290351817491193863">just 16 minutes</a> per game in the bubble, the team didn’t seem <a href="https://twitter.com/FredKatz/status/1291866550497050626">too enthused with Wagner’s play</a>. Now, he goes into year three as a long shot to earn rotation minutes over Robin Lopez and he faces many questions about what he is as a player on both ends of the floor. With Rui Hachimura & Anthony Gill onboard as players who can play small-ball center, Wagner could be a player that struggles to see the floor at all unless injuries and or COVID-19 come into play. The price to pick up his option for next season isn’t that significant, but it seems that Wagner is really in need of a strong training camp to earn a rotation spot and/or a guaranteed deal with the Wizards for next year. Unfortunately, it seems like the odds are against either happening.</p>
<h3 id="qO2Bmd">Isaac Bonga</h3>
<p id="5arseB">Bonga is like the others on this list with a tenuous rotation spot, but is unlike the rest because he is extension-eligible and a restricted free agent at year’s end. He’s the youngest of these four and he showed last year that he’s one of the few on this roster who is capable of defending at a potentially high level if we assume more growth occurs with his defensive play.</p>
<p id="3dVd95">He was <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS/status/1285306717539098624">making headlines</a> in practice going into the bubble and showed flashes at various points throughout last season. Advanced stats have been kind to him on both ends. One would think he’s the most conventional “3 and D” on this roster, but the 3 part of that equation is lacking. He shot 18% on 3 pointers in the bubble and while he connected on 35% for the year, he was only attempting those types of shots (and all shots) infrequently. It’s imperative that he shows a quicker and more reliable shot to stay on the court this year. With Westbrook now on the team and seemingly a lot of mouths to feed on offense, Bonga could be a clean fit with his versatility on defense and unselfish, intelligent play. Is he ready to seize the small forward role and start a majority of games for the second year in a row? It’s a tough call but if I were to guess he is the favorite to do it and Bonga could be a long-term player in D.C. That said, he’s now in year three and he has a long way to go to be viewed by the rest of the league as a starter-worthy player.</p>
<h3 id="oirDVw">Troy Brown Jr</h3>
<p id="F7wbyP">Brown Jr. represents quite a challenge with the current makeup on this roster. When considering that Beal and Westbrook are options 1 & 2 offensively, the opportunities for Troy to fill a role as a secondary playmaker on the perimeter will be limited. Brown Jr. rebounds well, but he didn’t step up well defensively against bigger wings last year and it seems that after a flirtation with running him as a point guard in the bubble, the additions of Cassius Winston and Raul Neto to pair with Westbrook and Smith shows the Wizards are not planning on that role continuing for him.</p>
<p id="JYvgEF">Last season, his numbers were much better when playing as a reserve. Brooks has talked about him competing to start at the 3 but Brown talked last year about <a href="https://twitter.com/WizardsXTRA/status/1213668538453549056">feeling comfortable in a bench role</a> and he seems to prefer the ball in his hands to take advantage of his pick & roll and passing ability. That role is more likely off the bench, and not next to ball dominant players like Westbrook and Beal. Brown Jr. handling the ball with the starters is even less likely when we consider that he’d likely be behind Thomas Bryant and Rui Hachimura in the pecking order too. The defensive concerns further lead me to think he’ll be coming off of the bench again, and it remains to be seen how the other options (Avdija, Robinson, Bonga) could cut into his playing time at that.</p>
<p id="rMuH9I">One would think that picking up his fourth year option is a foregone conclusion. He has shown positives, particularly in the bubble despite continued inconsistencies playing an off-ball role and with the willingness and accuracy of his outside shot. If he struggles to start the year, he does have fans throughout the league (<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F2241659%2F2020%2F12%2F08%2F2020-21-washington-wizards-john-hollingers-preview-analysis-prediciton%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bulletsforever.com%2F2020%2F12%2F14%2F22169070%2Fwashjngton-wizards-nba-young-players-jerome-robinson-moritz-wagner" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">hello John Hollinger</a>) and he likely would be the Wizards most obvious trade piece to acquire a player who presents a better fit. Brown Jr. comes off as a hard worker, he fits with the team personality-wise, and is still very young. However, if he doesn’t prove that he is a positive contributor on a playoff-level team prior to the trade deadline, I expect he’ll be moved.</p>
<p id="JJTHSR">As part of this discussion I didn’t include Thomas Bryant who’s already under contract, Deni Avdija who has a full rookie contract, or Rui Hachimura who also is only beginning year two. They represent additional variables as players who the Wizards need to contribute this year, but the urgency of a deadline with a contractual decision coming up is not there to the same extent as it is for the four 3rd year contributors. Overall, the Wizards season will likely hinge on the young players advancing as NBA players, and this group will be crucial to this season and to the direction the Wizards go moving forward.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/12/14/22169070/washjngton-wizards-nba-young-players-jerome-robinson-moritz-wagnerJohn Morrow2020-05-23T10:00:00-04:002020-05-23T10:00:00-04:00Can Wagner and Bryant share the center position by committee?
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<img alt="Atlanta Hawks v Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qhWGLzEqLgajvLryfcO1WSgt_tA=/0x0:3280x2187/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66836015/1211074609.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Moritz Wagner has had a promising first year with the Washington Wizards. Could he also move to the power forward position in the years ahead? | Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>In the last part of a four-part series on the Washington Wizards, we take a look at the center position and what could be done to help Moritz Wagner and Thomas Bryant flourish together in Washington</p> <p id="vTGqBB">I hope you have enjoyed this multi-part series on major questions surrounding the Washington Wizards as they head into next season ... or perhaps later this season since we could be seeing NBA basketball return in July.</p>
<p id="MKjdiQ">If you missed the other three parts, they are right below.</p>
<aside id="R98NdX"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Is Brown or Bonga the Wizards’ small forward of the future?","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/20/21261665/washington-wizards-troy-brown-isaac-bonga-small-forward-nba-analysis"},{"title":"Can Hachimura and Bertans play well together long term?","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/21/21264438/washington-wizards-questions-part-2-rui-hachimura-davis-bertans-power-forward-chemistry"},{"title":"Which Wizards can be part of a stronger future defensive unit?","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/22/21261680/washington-wizards-questions-defensive-unit-bradley-beal-frontcourt-nba"}]}'></div></aside><p id="V2f3kU">In today’s fourth and final part, we will look at the center position. We know that Ian Mahinmi is probably not coming back. So ....</p>
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<strong>Can </strong><span><strong>Thomas Bryant</strong></span><strong> & </strong><span><strong>Moritz Wagner</strong></span><strong> form part of a center committee?</strong>
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<img alt="New York Knicks v Washington Wizards" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SIg0PrtyWee9I2rduyW5MiHKgCM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19997105/1206652677.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Thomas Bryant dribbles the ball in the Washington Wizards’ last home game in March before the 2019-20 NBA season was suspended.</figcaption>
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<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="Uxd6fQ"><q>Tommy Sheppard said, “if you look at the way the game is played, it’s harder and harder to have significant money tied into one player at the center position. We found it as a necessity to do center-by-committee. We’re pleased with the progress of Thomas Bryant, Moe Wagner, and Anzejs Pasecniks.”</q></aside></div>
<p id="nP7cn0"><span>Bryant</span> and Wagner both profile as backup bigs on a win-now team, which we should expect the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> to operate as starting next year, to an extent. I’m of the opinion that there’s room for both of them to co-exist on this team even if they draft or sign another 5 to start ahead of them. It may not be ideal for their development but they could compete for minutes and contribute with their skills to a committee, though there is redundancy in their play styles.</p>
<p id="fgA8o5"><span>Thomas Bryant</span> adds more to this team right now than Wagner, but the gap isn’t significant and <span>Bryant</span> earns almost four times as much money as Wagner. Between the two of them next year, they are set to earn about $10.5 million. </p>
<p id="8SqB7L">If a center is signed to the Mid-Level Exception, that makes it around $20M total spent on centers. That’s not so bad as it’s split between three players, thus allowing the team to retain flexibility. If they do sign a center with an injury history to join the group it will be important to have a competent third center, which either player would be.</p>
<p id="9jq3Dz">Both of them have shown positive signs as shooters. Wagner shot 22-of-54 from three point line, just over 40 percent in the 17 games prior to his injury. In the 20 games after, he shot 2-of-13 from deep, a drastic change both in frequency and accuracy. It’s fairly clear based on his shot selection that Wagner was instructed to focus more on screening, rolling, and operating in the paint. </p>
<p id="lkVVSF">I think it’s by design from Brooks because Wagner shares the court most often next to <span>Bertans</span> and they need someone occupying the paint. We’ve seen the reduced attempts from Bryant as well to a lesser extent, as he shot 10-for-35 in 18 games pre-injury and 12-of-19 in 20 games post-injury.</p>
<p id="SfGub6">It’s been much more pick & roll and time in the paint for each of them than time spent outside. They have shared the floor with almost all perimeter-focused players, so there is logic to that approach, even if it might limit the abilities outside the lane for both players.</p>
<p id="GtRr9m">Neither Bryant nor Wagner has shown any sign that they could be a defensive boon that the Wizards need — though I think we’re in for a disappointment if we think many of the names thrown around in the draft or free agency are a fix-all. </p>
<p id="dEiNLK">It doesn’t mean that both can’t be parts of the team moving forward. If the opportunity arises where either can be packaged with other pieces to acquire a wing improvement or top-level center that’s been desired, then the other serves as a decent backup center on an affordable deal. Hopefully, the draft breaks right, or the right free agent is added, but both of these players should factor in regardless.</p>
<h3 id="fvQsVR"><strong>Can Wagner also play the power forward?</strong></h3>
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<img alt="Washington Wizards v Philadelphia 76ers" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/EfzeoWkNDKaLmwNfzwiOEpbl09I=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19997108/1176666232.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Wagner has good shooting touch, which could also help him spend more time at the power forward position.</figcaption>
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<p id="mbkTg9">Somewhat related to the last point about keeping Wagner as part of the future, his positional versatility could help him. I’m in the camp that thinks Wagner can play some minutes at power forward if he’s paired with the right center. I do not think that he could pair with Bryant at the same time, and I don’t see Bryant moving to the 4, but I could see Wagner fitting fairly well next to a better defensive center. </p>
<p id="UqpJ4S">This would help with roster construction as the team would depend on him as a 3rd option at either spot and not need to have separate players at each position, and with open roster spots becoming a bigger question for next year, it’s not insignificant.</p>
<p id="clMAv9">Wagner seems fairly comfortable playing on the perimeter on each end and if he can rein in the fouling I could see him sticking with some opposing power forwards just enough. His shooting, passing, and ability to beat a closeout wouldn’t kill the spacing on offense if the aforementioned center is a paint-bound player. </p>
<p id="9mZQqr">I may be misguided on this question and expect a lot of disagreement, but when discussing Wagner and his viability moving forward with this team if Bryant is also kept, this unknown is something that I would think the management team is pondering about.</p>
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https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/23/21266866/washington-wizards-questions-nba-moritz-wagner-thomas-bryant-center-position-analysisJohn Morrow2020-05-22T10:00:00-04:002020-05-22T10:00:00-04:00Which Wizards can be part of a stronger future defensive unit?
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<img alt="Washington Wizards v Detroit Pistons" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qy0jmf_-7STL78zpqdyH0DmhAwY=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66831497/1087294356.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>John Wall made the All-NBA Defensive Second Team in the 2014-15 season. | Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Team defense was a weak point for the Wizards this season. It is essential that the team figure out which players are the best fits going forward.</p> <p id="IJ8QkE">In part two of this series of major Wizards questions yesterday, we focused on the power forward position rotation for the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards.</a></p>
<p id="ooElrW">For part three, we’ll focus more on the frontcourt as there are more glaring question marks there. But first, an area that was unacceptable in The District this season: defense.</p>
<h3 id="PlebtQ"><strong>Which current Wizards players can be part of a quality defense in the future?</strong></h3>
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<img alt="Milwaukee Bucks v Washington Wizards" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/HaX3-eppDTXnJfQRYJkYF99bpUk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19992856/1203012491.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Stephen Gosling/NBAE via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Bradley Beal prepares to go on defense in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks.</figcaption>
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<p id="c0icDk">Let’s dream that the Wizards add a couple of players this offseason who are excellent individual defenders. Without Isaiah Thomas around, there were improvements after he was traded. Though the results weren’t overly encouraging, there were at least glimmers of hope that defense wouldn’t be such a weak point as opposed to their play before the trade deadline. </p>
<p id="pKKZjr">So if the team actually prioritizes improving the defense this season, which they didn’t seem to do this year, how would they do it?</p>
<p id="bcq9gd">First, <span>John Wall</span>’s return looms large. If he dials in at the level that he did up until the 2016-2017 season, it’ll be a big boon. That’s likely not happening due to his age and injuries, but if there are improvements with him fighting through screens and giving consistent effort it’ll be far above what they got overall at the point last year.</p>
<p id="a4z8qe"><span>Bradley Beal</span> with presumably a slightly smaller offensive load and with playoffs on the mind can play much better defense. It is to be determined if that actually happens, but after <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/1/30/21116108/wizards-beal-left-off-eastern-conference-all-star-team">not being selected as an All-Star</a> this season, we saw a different player who was much more engaged on that end of the floor. <span>Jerome Robinson</span> represented an upgrade over McRae defensively and can guard either backcourt spot effectively.</p>
<p id="nnpQw6">We discussed the forward spot in the previous post, but the main defensive issues lie in the frontcourt. <span>Rui Hachimura</span> & <span>Thomas Bryant</span> appear to have the requisite strength and athleticism to improve, but awareness is sorely lacking. </p>
<p id="sOm0Jn"><span>Davis Bertans</span> does seem to have better awareness but is too slight to defend down low and too limited athletically to guard the perimeter. Moritz Wagner fouls at an enormous rate and rates as a net-negative, really at a similar level to <span>Bryant</span>. It’s vital for Bryant, Hachimura, and Wagner to improve with awareness, timing and positioning on defense next season.</p>
<p id="UJ13j6">So will the defense improve? It’s hard to say without knowing what the offseason will bring, but there is a possibility of internal improvement in this area and if the right pieces are added around them, we could see a defense ranked at least closer to league average. It might end up requiring existing players to be moved if they cannot take a step forward on that end next season.</p>
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<p id="nljB8z">In Part 4, our final part of this series, we will take a deeper dive into the center rotation, where Wagner and Bryant may need to find more ways to play together. That post will be coming out tomorrow!</p>
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https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/22/21261680/washington-wizards-questions-defensive-unit-bradley-beal-frontcourt-nbaJohn Morrow2020-05-21T14:00:00-04:002020-05-21T14:00:00-04:00Can Hachimura and Bertans play well together long term?
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<img alt="Atlanta Hawks v Washington Wizards" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OFOFkNoeqAZ_n1ofXTq3thr81sk=/8x0:4928x3280/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66827911/1211076839.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Washington Wizards forward Rui Hachimura and Davis Bertans are both good players. But can they play well together in the longer term? | Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Both play the same position and have their strengths. However, it is unclear if the two can share the floor together for long periods of time and make each other better.</p> <p id="TQj3JV">This is the second part of a multi-part series on some of the biggest questions the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> face heading toward the 2020-21 NBA season. If you missed part one, it’s right below.</p>
<aside id="6cO2gc"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Is Brown or Bonga the Wizards’ small forward of the future?","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/20/21261665/washington-wizards-troy-brown-issac-bonga-small-forward-nba-analysis"}]}'></div></aside><p id="I8uZ1V"><strong>Today, we will ask, can Davis Bertans & </strong><span><strong>Rui Hachimura</strong></span><strong> share the floor or possibly start together?</strong></p>
<p id="Z81uSr">This is a major question for the team to answer when deciding between options for this offseason. Both players profile as power forwards: Bertans spent 75 percent of his time there and Hachimura 85 percent, per <a href="http://cleaningtheglass.com">Cleaning the Glass</a>. General Manager Tommy Sheppard has broached the topic of Hachimura playing on the wing, and Bertans is set to earn a significant pay increase this offseason, likely for three or even four years. </p>
<p id="9NdD6v">Hachimura and Bertans may not have to start together. But with the emphasis the team has on Hachimura’s development and the money coming Bertans’ way this summer (if he stays a Wizard), it’s important to know if they can play together effectively.</p>
<p id="dQWkB4">The two together on offense, when combined with <span>Bradley Beal</span> and <span>John Wall</span>, should make an awesome quartet on paper. Bertans opens it up for everyone else with shooting, and then Rui can float between inside, out, and in his favored mid-range area, with a center occupying inside and diving to the rim. </p>
<p id="RlBlJv">Hachimura’s shortcomings as a shooter on the wing wouldn’t matter nearly as much as they would if he was playing a lot with a 4 (or 5) who doesn’t shoot well. The team wants more versatility and this pairing would allow Rui to play more spots and ultimately play bigger minutes if he’s on the wing.</p>
<p id="EBDHxW">Now, the defensive side of the ball is the challenge. I believe Bertans is passable (being kind) on the perimeter defending, but he really struggles against size both with one-on-one and rebounding. His wingspan being the same as his height doesn’t help there. He isn’t adept at it but he does alright moving his feet and with contesting on the outside. </p>
<p id="DLm6nV">I would prefer that Hachimura defends more power forward than Bertans but it’d be matchup dependent. Both of them are going to struggle to cut off penetration on the perimeter but I think Bertans’ length and awareness are more useful outside and Rui does better against players who are bigger than him when compared to Bertans. If they are paired with the right center, it <em>could</em> work. This might be the closing lineup if the season were to start today with <span>Wall</span>.</p>
<p id="VlE4FC">Hachimura’s and Bertans’ pairing still feels like an unanswered question after this year. I feel better about Bertans playing the 3 and sharing the court with Rui than I do about Rui bumping out and playing more on the wing with a different frontcourt that doesn’t include Bertans. But, the minutes with these two together are important when considering the makeup after this season, and it would allow the front office to focus on other priorities if they can share the court more.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="PIOhsF">
<p id="UPwFqB">In part three which will come out tomorrow, we will take a closer look at the Wizards’ defense and which players could be part of a stronger unit on that end of the floor moving forward.</p>
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https://www.bulletsforever.com/2020/5/21/21264438/washington-wizards-questions-part-2-rui-hachimura-davis-bertans-power-forward-chemistryJohn Morrow