Washington Wizards: Wizards Rumor Mill Heating Up
The Washington Wizards are off to a terrible start with a record of 5-11. Trade speculation has been lingering throughout the beginning of the season. Now, things are heating up more than ever.
The Washington Wizards have fielded nothing but complete dysfunction at the beginning of their season. Loaded with talent, the Wizards have failed to live up to expectations, which has caused the consideration of a possible rebuild.
With a record of 5-11, it’s not hard to see what’s about to unfold. Washington has been trying to do everything in their power to keep the All-Start backcourt together and build around them.
The team had hoped to get rid of Otto Porter Jr. and Kelly Oubre Jr.’s contracts and make them the focal point of trades, unfortunately that hasn’t panned out. Porter hasn’t showed his worth and teams don’t seem that intrigued with his contract either. The current situation is leaving them no choice but to consider all options.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Wizards have given the indication that everyone on their roster including guards John Wall and Bradley Beal are available for trade discussions.
Wall, for the most part, has been at the center of trade talks for Washington fans. The criticism over the past few weeks have lit a fire under him, but it’s his attitude that’s most in question.
I’m sure everyone has seen the Instagram video of him talking to the fans. If you haven’t, let’s just say it’s not what the leader of the team should be saying. On top of this, his contract would be the hardest to move with his 15% trade kicker.
Beal is the most attractive due to his age and his contract being reasonable. If the Wizards want to get the most return on their investment, then Beal is going to be the best option.
Seems like Washington will still do everything in their power to at least keep one of the All-Star guards on the roster so that they can still build around them. Being only 2.5 games back from playoff contention only complicates matters even worse.
If the right trade is made the Wizards could get value and still contend in the Eastern Conference for a playoff spot. Ted Leonsis, Ernie Grunfeld, and this organization have some tough decisions ahead. History doesn’t tend to favor these gentlemen, which will make the next few weeks very interesting.
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