Washington Wizards: 3 Players that should be re-signed this offseason

No. 3 – Alex Len

After being cut by the Toronto Raptors, Alex Len was signed to a one-year deal on January 22nd. Even though he was simply considered as an extra big body at the time, Alex Len ended up paying big dividends for the Washington Wizards last year. He started 40 games for the Wizards and averaged 7.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks per game. Len didn’t dominate in the paint, but he was a consistent finisher down low.

With Washington, Len scored on 65 percent of his two-point shot attempts. He was often a good dump-off pass option for Russell Westbrook and Bradley Beal when they would drive to the lane with nowhere to go. According to Basketball-Reference, 75 percent of Len’s field goal attempts inside the paint were assisted. He isn’t a true post-up or back-to-the-basket threat, but his ability to finish inside the paint at a high rate is a valuable trait.

Thomas Bryant and Daniel Gafford are currently the only centers under contract for the upcoming season. Both Len and Robin Lopez will be unrestricted free agents, and it’s doubtful they both return. The Wizards need to prioritize bringing back at least one of them for some assurance. Even if the Wizards use the 15th pick in this year’s draft to add depth at the center spot, that player may take time to develop.

It would be smart for the Wizards to keep a veteran who has already proven to be a starting-caliber player in the league. Len and Lopez both fit the bill, so it may come down to which player wants to return. Lopez could be off to greener pastures and with possible hopes of a championship in what will be his 14th NBA season. But Len may return on a relatively reasonable one or two-year deal after the Wizards gave him a great opportunity this past season. There’s usually no loyalty in this business but let’s hope that changes in this situation and Len’s time in D.C. continues for a little longer.