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Washington Wizards: 3 potential Ian Mahinmi replacements

By Collin Loring

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 12: Ian Mahinmi #28 of the Washington Wizards dribbles in front of Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz during the game at Capital One Arena on January 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 12: Ian Mahinmi #28 of the Washington Wizards dribbles in front of Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz during the game at Capital One Arena on January 12, 2020 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /
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Washington Wizards (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
Washington Wizards (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

As the Washington Wizards prepare to lose Ian Mahinmi in free agency, let’s take a look at three targets to replace him with at center.

It’s no secret around the NBA that the Washington Wizards’ most glaring need walking into next season is at the center position. Ian Mahinmi is headed for free agency, Thomas Bryant has health concerns, and Moritz Wagner is a defensive liability.

Elsewhere, John Wall is returning from an Achilles injury, and the timer on Bradley Beal’s prime is ticking in general manager Tommy Sheppard’s ear.

The Wizards need next season to be a renaissance of success for their All-Star backcourt. But they’ll need help in the frontcourt if they’re to make the playoffs as they hope.

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Even with a top-10 draft pick, Washington may look to incorporate some experience into their big man rotation. Bryant and Wagner are 22 and 23 respectively. Mahinmi had previously served as the primary starter and veteran big man in the locker room.

And even then, it wasn’t enough.

Per NBA.com, the Wizards ranked 30th this season in rebounds per game, 24th in blocks, and as is known well across the league: had the worst defensive rating in the NBA. Fortunately, this summer’s free agent class features an abundance of veteran big men.

Some the Wizards have worked with before, some they already hold off-court relationships with, and others who would be considered an upgrade from Mahinmi. That being said, let’s take a look at three veteran big men Washington should consider this offseason.

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