The Washington Wizards helped create one of the biggest news stories last offseason when they traded Russell Westbrook to the Los Angeles Lakers. Westbrook, a former winner of the league’s MVP Award, went on to have one of his worst seasons with the Lakers, making the haul the Wizards received for him look amazing.
The Wizards, after adding some supplementary pieces to the trade, received Montrezl Harrell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, Aaron Holiday, and Isaiah Todd. Not a bad haul for a 32-year-old point guard whose best days are probably behind him.
After also signing Spencer Dinwiddie, the Wizards went on to make more moves during the season. They flipped Holiday to the Phoenix Suns for cash and Harrell to the Charlotte Hornets for Vernon Carey Jr. and Ish Smith.
However, the best move the Wizards made, if it works out, was sending Davis Bertans and Dinwiddie to the Dallas Mavericks for Kristaps Porzingis. Now, let’s look at the moves the Wizards need to make to consolidate these previous ones.
Offseason roster moves the Washington Wizards need to make: 1. Move on from Thomas Bryant
When Thomas Bryant hits the court, he is a truly wonderful energy player. His ability to score at a high percentage on a low number of shots makes him an integral part of the Wizards’ offense. He is also a good rim protector, averaging almost a block per game.
The problem is that Bryant is injured more than he is not. He has had one season out of five where he has managed to play more than 70 games, which was in his second season. In his five seasons, Bryant has only played 170 games, and the Wizards need players on the court if they are going to challenge for the playoffs.