Washington Wizards: 5 options for pick No. 44 in 2018 NBA Draft

Who are five players that the Washington Wizards should consider when it’s time to select with the No. 44 pick in the 2018 NBA Draft?

The Washington Wizards regressed in 2017-18. A team that was once considered an Eastern Conference contender backslid into eighth place. They were ultimately dismissed in the first round of the playoffs by the Toronto Raptors in six games.

Now, the Wizards have to figure out how they can turn things around. The team’s core is still under contract for 2018-19. In most cases, that would be considered a good thing in the name of continuity.

For Washington, unfortunately, those deals have tied up their finances, putting them $23.8 million over the salary cap heading into next year. That makes it difficult to acquire new talent through free agency and trades.

Luckily, the Wizards have two picks in the 2018 NBA Draft: Nos. 15 and 44. This will be Washington’s first appearance in the draft since 2015, when they selected Jerian Grant and Aaron White. Grant was traded on draft night for the rights to Kelly Oubre Jr.

Heading into the draft, the Wizards are in need of an athletic center (such as Robert Williams) and a backup guard. Who are some options that fit these profiles and may be available to the Washington Wizards at the No. 44 pick?