Washington Wizards: 5 obstacles to contending in 2017-18

The Washington Wizards are in good shape entering the 2017-18, but what are their obstacles to contending?

The Washington Wizards had a productive 2016-17 campaign, which saw them make the NBA Playoffs for the first time under head coach Scott Brooks.

The Wizards finished the season with a 49-33 record, finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference. They lost to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference semifinals in seven games.

Despite losing last season, the Wizards have an opportunity to be a contender for the NBA title with their newest additions. The loss of point guard Brandon Jennings and forward Bojan Bogdanovic may be felt briefly, but the reality is, Jennings and Bogdanovic were members of the team for a combined total of 49 games.

The Wizards played it safe in the offseason with their free agency signings, but they still signed some quality veterans in the process. Guard Jodie Meeks is a proven 3-point shooter who should add a quality scorer off the bench. Forward Mike Scott is a big who can run the floor and stretch the floor for 3-point shots when need be. Point guard Tim Frazier gives the Wizards a solid backup point guard that can spell John Wall when needed.

By the end of Game 7 of last year’s playoffs, Wall was exhausted and it showed, as he finished the final game shooting 8-of-23 from the floor and 1-of-8 from 3-point land.

Here’s to new beginnings in the 2017-18 season as we take a look at five obstacles in the Washington Wizards’ way of contending for a championship.