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)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/11a0123d1999600de433eb907a2067016208722849284bc2754fe67be606e534.jpg)
Trey Lyles
Trey Lyles is another stretch big man that fits the Wizards’ roster and timeline. The 27-year-old Kentucky product has flourished with the Sacramento Kings as a backup who could play both power forward and center. Lyles played a crucial role in Sacramento’s surprise season with his ability to shoot, finish, and defend.
Lyles is not going to change the fate of your franchise, but as a player with no weaknesses, he is going to provide steady minutes off the bench and will step up into the starting lineup easily when needed. Lyles’ shooting ability will allow the Wizards to continue playing the same style as they do when Porzingis is on the floor. Last season, when Porzingis was sidelined or on the bench, the big rotation of Daniel Gafford and Taj Gibson couldn’t provide the offensive firepower needed to succeed.
Lyles can play with or without Porzingis. He can be insurance when Porzingis is dealing with an injury. If Porzingis leaves or gets traded at some point, Lyles also provides a stop-gap solution without losing much value until a long-term solution is found.
Lyles only made $2.5 million last year. Sacramento will try to keep him but the Wizards’ ability to offer more playing time and a bigger role may be enough to bring him to Washington.