5 Moves Wizards should make after re-signing Kyle Kuzma
By Tyler Watts
3. Explore the market for Gallinari
The Wizards acquired Danilo Gallinari from the Celtics in the Kristaps Porzingis trade. The veteran forward did not play last season as he recovered from a torn ACL. He opted in on his $6.8 million player option, which has his future in question. Jake Fischer reported the two sides were expected to reach a buyout, but why would Washington be eager to do that now?
Gallinari is a proven and productive forward that will have trade value if he is healthy and able to play 25 minutes per game. The Wizards could keep him on their roster and give him the chance to prove that he is back before trading him after his market develops. There is no sense in immediately buying him out.
Danilo Gallinari likely wants to play for a contender, but he chose to opt-in. Now, the Wizards control his contract and can choose to keep him. Gallo could refuse to report to camp, but that seems unwise when coming off a lost season.
The Washington Wizards should start exploring the trade market for deals. What are teams willing to offer now? How much does the price go up if Gallinari proves he is healthy? The Wizards will likely trade him at some point, but it does not have to be this offseason.