The Washington Wizards are headed towards a rebuild despite the current structure of the roster suggesting a hopeful, yet unrealistic win-now approach.
Washington has no expectations entering the season, but the tone around the young team and their coaching staff seems to be the Wizards believe they could be a sleeper this season if they can get an early impact from a strong rookie class.
However, aside from the current young players on the roster already, the Wizards could be in the market to add more promising youth before the season ends.
Jonathan Kuminga to the Wizards could make sense.
Jonathan Kuminga was drafted with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. The former G-League Ignite standout joined the Warriors' loaded roster at a time when it was tough for him to see minutes on a championship roster.
However, after four seasons in Golden State, it’s been tough for the young forward to find an opportunity to truly showcase what he has to offer. Last season was Kuminga’s best year with the Dubs, averaging 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists on 52.9% shooting from field goal range and 32.1% from three.
Unfortunately, the 6-foot-7 playmaker found himself being moved to the bench after a slow start to the season. In addition, the fact that Kuminga and the Warriors were unable to come to terms on a new deal in the offseason, hasn’t helped his situation which looks to be trending towards Kuminga suiting up for a new team in the future.
The Warriors are moving F Jonathan Kuminga to bench tonight vs. Pelicans, sources tell me and @kendra__andrews. Intriguing development in a fourth season when no extension was complete for both sides and team has discussed setting him up to take the next step. pic.twitter.com/RxYOq3nuuj
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 30, 2024
Nonetheless, you may be wondering: What does this have to do with the Wizards? Well, Washington is in a position where they can certainly make a move to bring in a reclamation project with high potential.
The Wizards currently have three veterans on their team who could be dealt before the seasons end. Between Kyle Kuzma, Malcolm Brogdon, and Jonas Valanciunas, one, if not all could be on their way out before the trade deadline.
That said, in a deal that could make sense for both sides, Washington could offer Kuzma who’s locked in for the future under contract in a deal to land Kuminga’s expiring deal. Perhaps the increased playing time and fit alongside Washington’s young roster, and No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr could entice the forward to sign an extension in the offseason.
That said, keep an eye out for Washington if the Warriors do decide to move on from Kuminga.