Wiz of Awes
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5 backup centers that Washington Wizards should consider trading for

By Cem Yolbulan

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MARCH 29: James Wiseman #13 of the Detroit Pistons reaches for the basket over Jaylin Williams #6 and Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the third quarter at Paycom Center on March 29, 2023 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Joshua Gateley/Getty Images)
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - MARCH 29: James Wiseman #13 of the Detroit Pistons reaches for the basket over Jaylin Williams #6 and Jalen Williams #8 of the Oklahoma City Thunder in the third quarter at Paycom Center on March 29, 2023 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. 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 Joshua Gateley/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)
(Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images) /

James Wiseman

Despite the Detroit Pistons trading away five second-round picks for him last season, James Wiseman still can’t see the floor. He is behind Jalen Duren, Isaiah Stewart, and Marvin Bagley in the rotation and has only played in one game this year. That seems unlikely to change anytime soon, especially once they are at full strength with the return of Bojan Bogdanovic. This could be an opportunity for the Washington Wizards.

Wiseman is still 22 years old. His raw physical tools are still impressive. He is a legit 7-footer with an elite wingspan. When fully actualized, he has the ability to be a two-way center with his soft touch, scoring ability, and rim protection potential. He just has to play regularly and build confidence.

Even though this is Wiseman’s fourth season in the NBA, he has only played in 85 games. That is basically one full season of professional basketball. Considering how little he played in college, Wiseman just needs to be in a situation where he can play without the pressure of getting pulled if he makes mistakes. He needs the developmental time without worrying about winning. The Wizards can provide him with that opportunity.

Wiseman can walk into a 20-minute-a-night role with Washington, as he is better than the current backups on the Wizards roster, despite his flaws. He would automatically be the tallest, biggest player on the roster, and that is something the Wizards can rely on if all else fails.

If there is one thing this Wizards front office possesses, it’s patience, and that’s the main thing Wiseman needs. This could be an ideal match for both sides.

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