Now that the Washington Wizards finally have a direction with a revamped front office and commitment to be active this offseason, it is time to think about roster construction. Even though it is difficult to project if and how much cap space the Wizards will have due to the uncertainty around the contract situation of Kristaps Porzingis and Kyle Kuzma, there are certain free agents that are worth targeting regardless of club finances.
As a rebuilding team, the Wizards will most likely avoid long-term, above-market-value contracts. The goal will be to find undervalued gems that fit your team and help your core players grow while holding positive trade value going forward. Smart, veteran players that have experience with winning and are good locker-room leaders are key for a rebuilding team trying to build their culture. Also, it is crucial to surround your core young players with players that fit their style.
Wizards have invested in Deni Avdija, Johnny Davis, and Corey Kispert, therefore, it is in their best interest to see what these players can do given ample opportunity. So, it behooves them to surround them with players who don’t need the ball in their hands, can space the floor for them, and can play defense.
It may be hard to find players that can do all of those things at an elite level, but there are certainly upcoming free agents who fit the bill and who the Wizards can potentially afford. These players are not world-beaters but they are gettable, cheap pieces that can help the Wizards during the rebuild.