Wiz of Awes
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Wizards: Delon Wright proves that he can contribute to a contender

By Cem Yolbulan

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 10: Patrick Miller #1 of the Cairns Taipans dribbles in front of Delon Wright #55 of the Washington Wizards during the first half of a preseason game at Capital One Arena on October 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 10: Patrick Miller #1 of the Cairns Taipans dribbles in front of Delon Wright #55 of the Washington Wizards during the first half of a preseason game at Capital One Arena on October 10, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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Preseason games usually don’t show much. Especially if they are against an outmatched Australian NBL team, it’s hard to have too many interesting takeaways. However, one thing that was obvious in last night’s game was the fact that Delon Wright is still a valuable basketball player that would help a lot of championship hopefuls.

The 31-year-old combo guard had an under-the-radar but excellent season with the Washington Wizards last year. He was one of the most impactful players on the team last season, and it looks like he has every intention to repeat that performance this year.

Against the Cairns Taipans yesterday, Wright finished the game with 4 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals in 16 minutes of action. As usual, he was fantastic defensively, going over screens, getting into passing lanes, deflecting passes, and making plays as a help defender. Not only did he look sharp physically, but he also demonstrated an impressive level of defensive awareness and savvy throughout the game. His presence alone pushes the team’s defense to another level.

Delon Wright shows no signs of decline to begin the season if yesterday was any indication. His experience, leadership, and defensive intensity could obviously be very valuable to this young Wizards team. Bilal Coulibaly and Johnny Davis could especially learn a lot from him.

However, Wright could also be an excellent addition to a variety of championship contenders. On an expiring contract worth $8 million for this season, Wright could be easily acquirable for plenty of teams. As a leader of the bench units and a defensive stopper against elite offensive guards, Wright could play a crucial role for playoff teams.

As helpful as it would be for the Wizards to keep Wright around for another year, they should think about moving him if they receive a trade offer that includes multiple second-round picks or a young player of intrigue. Seeing Wright on a competitive team while he is in his prime would be fascinating to watch.

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