The Washington Wizards may have the best frontcourt in franchise history entering next season.
From the scoring abilities of former all-star Anthony Davis to the developing defensive instincts of Alex Sarr, the sky is the limit for this year’s bigs.
Washington’s frontcourt will present challenges for many teams, especially in a depleted Eastern Conference. The one issue that could get in their way? Depth.
Behind their two cornerstones, Tristan Vukcevic and the undersized Justin Champagnie are their only bigs.
Both Davis and Sarr have complex injury histories, making it unreasonable to expect either to play 40 minutes for 82 games. A dependable reserve or two could make a massive difference, keeping them fresh throughout the regular season.
Here are some available big men who could contribute for Washington, as they strive to return to playoff contention in 2026-27.
Moritz Wagner, Orlando Magic
Given the Wizards’ current abundance of youth, the organization’s preference is likely to sign a young, talented player to a multiyear deal backing up Davis and Sarr. This would allow long-term stability at the backup position, even if it may cost more.
Moritz Wagner certainly fits that bill. At first glance, though, it would be fair to have some concerns.
The Orlando center played just 36 games this year, coming off a torn ACL in December of 2024. His minutes were limited once he returned, after struggling mightily shooting the ball.
A year removed from the injury, though, buying low on Wagner could be a smart investment.
The big man flashed some of the traits that made him special in 2024 when asked to step up in game 7 against Detroit this postseason, splashing a 3 and fighting hard on the boards.
After ranking dead-last in rebound percentage this season, the Wizards could certainly use Wagner’s talents, even if he comes as a bit of a risk. Getting a young player with upside would be a serious win, especially at a low cost.
Trendon Watford, Philadelphia 76ers
Trrendon Watford is far from the flashiest name out there on the free agency market. But if Washington’s priority is really bringing in young, talented names, he could be a great option.
Similar to Wagner, the 76ers forward had a down season plagued by injuries. A streak of lower-body ailments cost Watford about 2 months of the season, leading to him falling out of the rotation.
The 25-year-old’s minutes earlier in the season show exactly what he could offer to Washington, nonetheless: a toolsy offensive player with strong defensive instincts. Watford is a stellar shooter, ball-handler, and passer for his size, while also matching up well against wings and smaller bigs.
As a true do-it-all player, Watford could provide in a lot of areas where the Wizards struggled last season. He’s worth signing to a prove-it deal, to see if he can be a long-term factor.
Kevon Looney, New Orleans Pelicans
Kevon Looney doesn’t quite fit with our other two free agency targets. At 30 years old, it’s likely the best years of the big man’s career are behind him, especially after a down season in New Orleans.
Even if he doesn’t quite fit Washington’s timeline, Looney might be too great a basketball fit to pass on, however. Although his athleticism has declined in recent years, his size and length still make him a great rim protector as a backup big.
A year after allowing the third-most points in the paint in the NBA, Looney’s minutes would give the Wizards a huge boost. For the right price, he could be a valuable short-term piece for the Wizards.
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