Washington Wizards: Complete 2017 offseason grades

Wizards trade 52nd pick to the Pelicans for Tim Frazier

The Washington Wizards didn’t feel like taking a risk in the 2017 NBA Draft. At least, that’s the theory in hindsight after the Wizards traded their only pick in the draft for a proven backup point guard.

Tim Frazier, product of Penn State, is entering his fourth season in the NBA and he’s become tasked with leading the second unit, primarily when John Wall is out the game. Frazier isn’t a bad pickup, as he averaged 7.1 points, 5.2 assists and 2.7 rebounds per game for the New Orleans Pelicans last season.

He appeared in 65 total games, starting in 35 of those contests. In 35 starts, Frazier averaged 8.9 points, 6.9 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 2016-17. He’s shown to not only be a reliable scorer but also a facilitator, whether in a starting or reserve role.

It bodes well for a team lacking in the assists department. Outside of Wall, Washington lacked a pass-first guard on their roster prior to trading for Frazier. The 52nd pick may or may not have gotten them a quality backup point guard, but a trade for one definitely solves the issue.

Grade: B+