Washington Wizards Need Paul Pierce To Stick Around For 1 More Year

May 15, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) reacts after getting hit in the face against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
May 15, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) reacts after getting hit in the face against the Atlanta Hawks during the first half in game six of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 26, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) smiles as Washington Wizards head coach Randy Wittman (L) while walking to the bench against the Toronto Raptors in the third quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Wizards won 125-94, and won the series 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 26, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) smiles as Washington Wizards head coach Randy Wittman (L) while walking to the bench against the Toronto Raptors in the third quarter in game four of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Wizards won 125-94, and won the series 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

Washington Man

There’s no doubt that Pierce will probably be best known for his days in green with the Boston Celtics once his career is over, but for now, Pierce has become a true Washington man. What do I mean by this? I’m talking about Bryce Harper, Alexander Ovechkin, and heck, even the John Wall.

All of these guys are the biggest, well known, “Washington men” (forget about those politicians).

I think one moment really summed up how much fun Pierce has in Washington playing for the Wizards. It wasn’t any moment that took place on the court, either, although it did take place in the stands of their very arena.

Shortly after the Wizards swept the Raptors, members of the team were spotted out on the town, not at any night club or concert though. They were supporting one of Washington’s other playoff teams, the Washington Capitals. Pierce, Wall, Marcin Gortat, and Rasual Butler all attended one of their playoff hockey games.

They didn’t just warm seats, either. Pierce and the crew were seen pounding on the glass, and showing their support for the city and their sporting organizations.

Although some might not see this as a reason he needs to stick around for Washington to be successful, I think it’s an important factor. Pierce cares about the city and has a lot of pride in where he currently is. In addition, he seems to really enjoy his teammates.

I’ll allude to players in other sports, like Drew Brees, who has really taken a liking to the city of New Orleans. His pride in that city makes him an incredibly popular player for Saints fans (although his large sum of passing yards helps too).

Although the decision is ultimately his, I can embrace the fact that he loves Washington, and see that as a reason why the Wizards should continue to pursue him continuing his career.

Next: Playoff Experience