There's no doubt that the Washington Wizards have turned their attention to the 2026 NBA Draft with the chance at earning a top pick increasing by the game.
Washington's blockbuster trades ahead of the NBA trade deadline put all eyes on the 2026-27 season and with one final chance to earn a top pick before the league implements the new tanking rules, the Wizards have used the final stretch of the season to give their young players a chance to work through ongoing growing pains.
And while the opportunity for young players to work through issues is a positive about their down year, it could be allowing bad habits to sneak up on the Wizards, something that NBA mind Zach Lowe has made his concerns crystal clear about.
Zach Lowe is not impressed with the Wizards recent play
On a recent episode of the Bill Simmons Podcast, Lowe sounded off on Washington's recent play as a whole.
"They've definitely entered the tanking stage, where I don't like the way they're playing and I'm worried that this is going to set back the development of some of their players," Lowe said.
The NBA mind didn’t stop there, addressing Alex Sarr’s recent questionable moments directly:
"Every shot Alex Sarr takes, I’m like, ‘What? Why is he just allowed to dribble around and launch a 21-foot jumper inside the three-point arc, while other centers are just running him over on the way to the rim?’" Lowe adds.
All in all, it's clear that Lowe has major concerns not just about the team's play right now, but the long-term effects it will have on them.
"There are just a lot of possessions where I'm like, 'This is not good for anybody,'" Lowe said. "We've passed the point of, 'Oh, they're getting to spread their wings and try new stuff.' This is just bad stuff that's happening."
And it's hard to argue against the fact that he's right.
Wizards need to switch their approach
It's not a total shock to see a rebuilding team allow their young players to play rather aggressive, especially their top prospects.
Still, with a healthy superstar duo of Trae Young and Anthony Davis set to be leading the team next year, Washington should have their young core playing the exact way they plan for them to alongside their newest additions.
Obviously, it's hard to emulate that without the two on the court at the same time, but it could be absolutely vital for the team's future.