Cameron Boozer’s Duke debut might make the Wizards rethink their whole plan

The Washington Wizards are in the midst of their rebuild as general manager Will Dawkins continues to stack talent for the future.

Both Washington's front office and head coach Brian Keefe have made it clear that the team is still in the beginning phases of their rebuild and aren't placing any expectations on their roster entering the season.

Whether that's to prevent unfair expectations from the fanbase about their young core, or simply in efforts to keep the team focused on the long-term goal is unknown.

However, what is known is that the players on the roster have seperate expectations than the coaching staff and front office.

Several players, including the Wizards' newest addition Cam Whitmore have gone on record to suggests that Washington could be looking to turn things around quicker than expected this season.

In a wide open Eastern Conference that's missing the likes of Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum and Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton, it's safe to say that no one team is guaranteed to take over the East this season.

As a result, Whitmore and several other Wizards believe that there's a world in which Washington could not only prove to be a sleeper in the East, but perhaps a playoff bid could be in store for the young group this season.

However, the recent debut of one of the top prospects in the 2026 NBA Draft class should make the Wizards core change their minds about turning things around so quickly.

Cameron Boozer shines in Duke's debut

Cameron Boozer is projected to be one of the top prospects available next offseason and for a team like Washington, who's projected to be selecting in the top five of next offseason's NBA Draft, the forward's debut is everything teams could have hoped to see.

Boozer could be exactly the type of player that could propel the Wizards rebuild to the place Washington's fanbase has been hoping the team could get for years.

As the last potential piece to the puzzle, Boozer's ability to create his own shot, crash the boards and create for others could be a game changer in Washington's frontcourt, especially if the team sees any other players emerge this season.

However, to put themselves in position to select Boozer, Washington will have to avoid the urge to push for a playoff spot this season and instead focus on positioning themselves for a top five pick while they still can.