The Washington Wizards’ rebuild is in full swing. They hired Michael Winger to lead their front office in May 2023, and he quickly pivoted the franchise into a total teardown. Bradley Beal and Kristaps Porzingis were traded with a shift to amassing young talent and draft picks. The Wizards got a potential star in Alex Sarr with the second overall selection in 2024, but are still years away from contention.
Their focus is on development. Head coach Brian Keefe has a plan for his three rookies and second-year lottery pick Bilal Coulibaly still needs plenty of seasoning. Washington believes the foundation is being built. The franchise wants to be opportunistic and understands this is a slow process.
In Winger’s first 15 months on the job, the Wizards have added four building blocks and wisely bought low on a few veterans. Their roster is taking shape and it is clear what the front office is focusing on.
Wizards are searching for 3 traits in their current core
There is a common thread between Winger’s five draft picks since joining the franchise. They are clearly looking for size, length, and versatility in their core.
Coulibaly is 6’6 with long arms, and Sarr is seven-foot with a 7’4 wingspan. They selected Tristan Vukcevic in the second round in 2023. He is also seven feet with a 7’3 wingspan. Kyshawn George is 6’7 with long arms and even Bub Carrington has a 6’8 wingspan, despite standing just 6’4.
They all can do multiple things on the floor. Sarr can protect the rim, switch onto the perimeter, and sink jumpers. Vukcevic may not be a long-term piece, but he has shown a willingness to fire from long range. Carrington can play on or off the ball. George could be a 3-and-D wing with some ball-handling chops. Coulibaly has a versatile skill set that Washington plans on exploring further this season.
Winger is building a team for the modern NBA. The Wizards want size, versatility, and flexibility at every position. At his peak, Sarr is likely a stretch five with the ability to switch onto the perimeter. If Carrington turns into the team’s bucket-getter with Coulibaly and George serving as versatile wings, Washington is on to something.
The vision is in place, and it is clear what the front office wants to build. Developing young players is complex, and the Washington Wizards will continue to amass talent. If they keep going for players under Winger’s vision, they will find what the franchise seeks, but it will take time. Luckily, the Wizards are in no rush.