Washington Wizards: 4 Free agent fixes for next season
By Jack Skolnik
3. Paul Milsap
If the Wiz do not use the MLE on a wing, a big is clearly the best option.
Although nearing the end of his career, Paul Milsap could be a great fit in DC.
As a power forward, even with Rui Hachimura and potentially Davis Bertans on the roster next season, Milsap would still be able to provide a lot of support. Just like Crowder, Milsap has a lot of two-way value with his ability to stretch the floor and shoot on offense, as well as being able to guard multiple positions on defense.
Currently playing in Denver, Milsap is still averaging 11.9 points and 5.9 rebounds as a secondary option on a crowded Nuggets team. His play is likely to start to decline at the age of 35, but his age could also drive his price down in the open market. He will probably be cheap!
The market is still developing for a lot of these guys in a weak free agency class, but getting a guy like Milsap with the MLE would be valuable.
He is currently shooting a career-high 43 percent from three this season. With his ability to shoot and crash the glass on the inside, Milsap would fit great along with the Wizards’ dynamic backcourt.
He is another guy who can play multiple positions so having Rui and Davis should not deter the Wiz from pursuing Milsap, who could share the floor with either. He brings some flare and physicality on defense that would be an immediate help in DC.
Milsap, a 13-year veteran, can also bring some wisdom to locker room, especially for the young frontcourt. With Rui and Moritz Wagner expected to get a lot of minutes next year, Milsap would be able to take them under his wing and show them how to be as good as they can possibly be.
With the Denver Nuggets pretty deep at the moment, it is looking unlikely that Milsap will be back there next year, so why not give it a shot if you are Tommy Sheppard?
Plus, he actually has some playoff experience, something few Wizards currently have, and something that could be crucial in a year or so.