3 centers the Washington Wizards should target to fill their frontcourt need

Kenneth Lofton Jr.

One of the most unique players in the NBA, Lofton Jr. hasn’t been able to convert his high school, college, and national team success to the NBA so far. After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, Lofton Jr. has been with the Memphis Grizzlies and signed a guaranteed contract at the end of the 2022-23 season. He is still unlikely to play a role for Memphis in the immediate future.

The 20-year-old combo big is behind Jaren Jackson Jr, Steven Adams, Xavier Tillman, and Santi Aldama in the big man rotation. Considering the Grizzlies’ playoff ambitions and deep roster, they presumably will not have the playing time and patience necessary for Lofton Jr’s development.

And Lofton Jr. certainly needs the playing time for his development. With his 6’7 and 275-pound frame, he needs to figure out how to use his body in the NBA. After dominating in the lower levels and younger age groups with his physical style of play, Lofton Jr. needs to adapt to the pace and space of the NBA. For that, he needs a team like the Washington Wizards to trust him with a steady rotation role.

Lofton Jr. is a very talented offensive player. Not only is he one of the strongest players in the league, but he can also shoot, pass and make plays. He would certainly add a different offensive dimension to the Wizards. His defense is certainly a work in progress but as a 20-year-old with a high basketball IQ, there is a chance he ends up being a passable defender.

Regardless of whether Lofton Jr. can take the next leap in his career, having him on the roster will add to Washington’s watchability. A player with very unique strengths and clear limitations, he is one of the most fascinating prospects in the league. And that is worth taking a flyer on for the Wizards.