Washington Wizards: The backup point guard situation — Who stays, who goes

Will the Washington Wizards use the draft to find their backup point guard?

If they cannot bring Ish Smith or Raul Neto back and do not like what they find in free agency, the Washington Wizards may select a point guard with their pick in this year’s draft. Because the Wizards made the playoffs, they will have a non-lottery pick for the first time since 2018.

While a point guard selection may seem unlikely, as the draft is heavy with bigs and wings this year, some guard prospects to keep an eye on are Josh Giddey (Australia), Jaden Springer (University of Tennessee), and Tre Mann (University of Florida). While Giddey is expected to go a bit earlier than 15, it would not be surprising if the Wizards decided to draft him if he’s still available at 15. Tommy Sheppard has shown that he is partial to international players, and Giddey fits that mold.

There are a lot of question marks around who on the current roster will stay or go. With the Wizards embracing a “win-now” mentality, it would be shocking if the roster on opening night next season is similar to the roster that lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in the playoffs. Despite their contributions over the last two seasons, Ish Smith and Raul Neto could both be on their way out as the Wizards attempt an offseason overhaul.