Wizards offseason moves signal needed signs of organizational growth

When the Washington Wizards hired Will Dawkin as their lead decision-maker in the front office, it signaled a new organizational era, and their moves so far this offseason have held true with that goal.

Dawkins, who joined Washington by way of the now-successful Oklahoma City Thunder, came in determined to help the Wizards get on the right path, and they are well on their way.

Washington’s great offseason started in the 2024 NBA Draft. They picked three rookies, all of whom are projected to be a big part of their future moving forward.

Wizards offseason moves in free agency and at NBA Draft signal serious organizational growth

They took French big man Alex Sarr with the No. 2 pick, Pittsburgh guard Bub Carrington with the No. 14 pick, and Miami wing Kyshawn George with the No. 24 pick.

All three players have a ton of potential, and based on the way the Wizards are setting themselves up, will get plenty of opportunities to play right away, giving them valuable experience.

Dawkins traded Deni Avdija to the Portland Trail Blazers, and while he’s still only 22 years old, it’s clear that the Wizards want to hit the reset button with a whole new group of youngsters.

Sarr, Carrington, and George are now officially Dawkins guys, and he’s already bringing in veteran talent to help them grow as players in the NBA.

On the first night of free agency, the Wizards signed veteran big man Jonas Valanciunas to a three-year, $30 million contract. He should be a great mentor for Sarr.

Not only that, but Valanciunas’ production will give the Wizards’ center position a much-needed boost, likely giving Washington some chances to play in competitive games.

For years, Washington lived in a constant state of mediocrity, wasting away years of Bradley Beal’s prime just to finish right outside of the playoff picture.

Last year, they tore things down, starting a new era, but nothing truly changed until Dawkins was brought on board. Now, he’s here, and he’s ready to help Washington push forward.

Based on everything the Wizards have done this summer, it’s clear that they are committed to getting back to NBA relevance. But more importantly, they are committed to doing it the right way.