Wiz of Awes
Fansided

Four free agents the Wizards need to target this offseason

By Cem Yolbulan

PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 25: Georges Niang #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket against Grant Williams #12 of the Boston Celtics at the Wells Fargo Center on February 25, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Celtics defeated the 76ers 110-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - FEBRUARY 25: Georges Niang #20 of the Philadelphia 76ers drives to the basket against Grant Williams #12 of the Boston Celtics at the Wells Fargo Center on February 25, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Celtics defeated the 76ers 110-107. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
(Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

Malik Beasley

Malik Beasley is one of the best volume shooters in the NBA. He averaged 11.3 three-point attempts per 36 minutes last season, the 2nd highest mark in the league. His off-ball gravity, accuracy as a movement shooter, and versatility in his jump shot make him a very useful rotation player for a rebuilding team.

The Wizards were a below-average shooting team last season, ranking 19th in 3-point attempt rate, and 18th in accuracy. Outside of Porzingis and Kispert, there aren’t above-average shooters for their positions in the starting lineup. Malik Beasley solves both the volume and the accuracy problem. Put him around Avdija, Davis, or the rookie the Wizards are going to select with the no.8 pick, and they will get open driving lanes to the basket thanks to the three-point threat Beasley provides.

Beasley’s biggest weakness is his defense. His lack of athleticism and strength prevents him from defending at a high level. He is a one-position defender at best. His inability to guard makes him unplayable in the playoffs if his shot is not falling. That’s what happened with the Lakers’ playoff run. Beasley shot 7 of 26 from three in the playoffs and deservedly lost his spot in the rotation. Beasley’s playoff struggles should not be a big concern for the Wizards who mostly need him to boost their young players’ development with his spacing.

Beasley has a team option for 2023-24 worth $16.5 million. There is a good chance the Lakers will not pick up the option, making Beasley an unrestricted free agent. The Wizards should be able to lure Beasley with a multi-year deal and ample playing time.

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