Testing free agency in 2019
If the Wizards change Sato’s position, will he change teams? Satoransky made the following comment:
Tom Satoransky: "1 thing I learned from last season: in the NBA, you can never be sure with your position [on the team]." ... "People from other coaching staffs greet you, they congratulate you on the season. You take notice that perhaps there could be interest from other teams."
— Lukas Kuba (@Luke_Mellow) May 26, 2018
Is that a hint that if Satoransky doesn’t get to be Wall’s primary backup and his role changes, that he will seek other opportunities? Maybe.
But, he will be a restricted free agent at the end of the next season, so Washington gets the first bite at the apple.
Yes, Sato did an excellent job in the regular season. It’s not too far-fetched to say, he is the main reason why they were even able to reach the playoffs in the first place.
A year ago, one couldn’t make that blanket statement, but this season Sato proved himself. He just has to prove to the Wizards organization that his position is at point.
However, he has time this offseason to continue to improve. He hasn’t quite shown that he is ready to be the backup in the postseason. Yet, that’s not his fault.
The playoffs are a different type of animal. But if anyone could rise to the challenge, this season proved that you don’t bet against Sato.
Yet, nothing is guaranteed. But one thing’s for certain, the Wizards have to stop searching for Wall’s backup every season.