Washington Wizards Mailbag Monday: Why the Wizards Should Acquire A Scoring Guard Before the NBA Trade Deadline
By Ben Mehic
Before the season started, the Washington Wizards aimed to have versatility at both guard spots.
Trey Burke is a “point guard” on paper, but he plays like a shooting guard. Tomas Satoransky is 6-foot-7, but handles the ball like a one. Washington hoped that Brooks would be able to use the guards interchangeably and that the offense would flow. But neither guard is really all that productive.
Burke has been an efficient scorer, but his defensive struggles hinder the team. Plus, he’s small and doesn’t have the quickness to make up for it. Satoransky is a pass first, second and third player. The dude is either afraid of scoring or just flat out can’t shoot.
Washington would benefit immensely if they acquired a real scoring guard off the bench.
Again – the team’s second unit is last in scoring. That’s kind of a problem. And while the starters have made up for it, Bradley Beal will occasionally slump and Otto Porter won’t keep making every 3-point shot he attempts.
That’s why Ernie Grunfeld should consider trading for another guard – one that scores for a living.
Lou Williams comes to mind.
The Los Angeles Lakers are going to the NBA Lottery again and want to stock up young players. Williams has arguably been their best player this season and he’s due for a large contract soon. Since they’re not contending, the Lakers could part ways with Williams for a first-round pick.
Imagine how much better the Wizards’ second unit would be if they had someone like Williams.