The Washington Wizards are currently perceived as the worst teams in the NBA, and their 2-16 record does nothing but support that.
Washington has struggled all season long and their mixture of veteran players surrounding their young core has looked like the opposite of a winning recipe. However, while it's hard to find any positives in the Wizards rough start, the team's front office seemingly has a plan for the future as they continue to rebuild their roster.
Ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline, general manager Will Dawkins described the current state of the Wizards roster as "still in destruction mode." And if that is the truth, which we all expect it to be, one of the team's biggest offseason moves make sense now.
That said, here's a look at the Wizards offseason addition that could put them further ahead in their rebuild if they play their cards right.
Signing Jonas Valanciunas
When the Wizards signed Jonas Valanciunas in the offseason, it may have been one of the biggest question marks across the league. The big man clearly didn't fit what the Wizards were trying to accomplish as their roster is nowhere close to contending right now. And for Valanciunas, it was rumored that a lot of contenders had interest in the big man before he signed with Washington.
However, while the move may have looked questionable at the time, it makes perfect sense now. Washington managed to work with Valanciunas and his team to make a deal beneficial for both sides.
The former lottery pick was able to sign a lucrative contract that he was desperately seeking, and the Wizards would have the opportunity to trade him before the NBA Trade Deadline to a team needing a big. And while it hasn't happened yet, the rumor mill has continued to stir up the idea that Valanciunas has many suitors for his services as the trade deadline approaches.
Averaging 12.0 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists, while shooting 58.1% from field goal range, it's clear the veteran can still impact the game at a high level. And if the Wizards are able to trade away Valanciunas to a contending team, they'll likely get back plenty of draft capital, with a mix of young players or other veterans who they could flip again.
Nonetheless, while the Wizards season is currently frustrating to watch unfold, it's clear that Dawkins has a plan in place for the future.