Washington Wizards 2020-21: Who will make the cut next season?

Starting Small Forward: Lotto Pick/Troy Brown Jr.

Out of all the starting positions in this article, the small forward position is the one with the most question marks. However, the importance surrounding this choice/decision can not be understated.

The Wizards are currently in a spot where a high lottery pick, and hitting on said pick, would do wonders for them. With an interesting class of players, the Wizards need to hit on this pick if they truly want to contend over the next few seasons. With the current Wizards construct, they have some nice pieces. However, reinforcements are still needed.

Although whoever they pick might not necessarily be a “true” small forward, the player they select will most likely end up being a key piece for the Wizards moving forward. Back in November, I wrote an article in regards to the significance of this pick and some players who might be in the mix when Washington is on the clock. In a new era of more positionless basketball, do not be surprised if the player they select is on the court a lot with John Wall and Bradley Beal.

LaMelo Ball could be an interesting pick if the Wizards want to add another wing. At 6’7″ with a 6’10” wingspan, Ball has the skills to be a playmaking ballhandler with the size of a wing. If they end up with a guard like Cole Anthony, the Wizards can still play small and even if Cole does not necessarily start, he will still see the floor a lot.

If the Wizards decide to go with a big man or a guard and decide to have them come off the bench, the next man in line to most likely take the starting role would probably be Troy Brown Jr. Although Brown has had more success off of the bench and playing with the second unit this season, if the Wizards want to contend, they will need the best players they have out there. Brown might have to be that guy.

All in all this lottery selection should be viewed with high importance for Wizards fans. This selection will be very important both in the short and long term. If the Wizards decide to compete with a Wall/Beal core, this lottery pick will serve as another reinforcement. If the Wizards decide that the Wall/Beal era is over with, this lottery pick can be used as a player to build around for the future.

Regardless of if the player starting is this pick or Troy brown Jr. or even someone else, the importance of this decision cannot be undersold.