Washington Wizards Season Preview
- Re-signed: Anthony Gill, Richaun Holmes, Tristan Vukcevic
- Additions: Saddiq Bey (free agent), Malcolm Brogdon (trade), Jonas Valančiūnas (trade)
- Draft Picks: Alex Sarr (No. 2 overall), Bub Carrington (No. 14, via trade), Kyshawn George (No. 24, via trade), Dillon Jones (No. 26, traded to Knicks), Melvin Ajinca (No. 51, traded to Knicks)
- Departures: Deni Avdija (to Trail Blazers), Tyus Jones (to Suns), Landry Shamet (waived)
- Unsigned Free Agents: Jules Bernard
Last Season Recap
The Washington Wizards suffered through a dismal 2023-24 campaign, finishing with a franchise-worst 67 losses. It was a season characterized by poor shooting and underperformance, most notably from Jordan Poole, who struggled after being freed from his bench role in Golden State, shooting just 32.6% from deep. The Wizards’ attempts at developing a young core produced little excitement aside from Deni Avdija, who showed growth on both ends of the floor. Kyle Kuzma put up solid numbers, but they mostly came in a losing effort, and the team looked directionless without a franchise centerpiece.
Summer Summary
The Wizards made a notable trade, sending Deni Avdija to Portland in exchange for Malcolm Brogdon, future first-round picks, and second-rounders. This move was surprising given that Avdija, a young and improving player, could have been a part of the team’s long-term rebuild. However, Brogdon brings valuable experience and leadership to a team still in flux.
In the 2024 NBA Draft, Washington landed Alex Sarr with the No. 2 pick, an athletic 7-footer who played professionally in Australia. Though Sarr struggled during Summer League, his potential as a defensive anchor with a developing offensive game gives Wizards fans hope. Washington also acquired Bub Carrington and Kyshawn George, both promising guards, with additional first-round picks.
The team decided to remove the interim tag from Brian Keefe, making him the full-time head coach despite an 8-31 record after replacing Wes Unseld Jr.. The front office believes Keefe can grow with the team as they develop their young talent.
Player Spotlight: Alex Sarr
The No. 2 pick, Alex Sarr, represents a pivotal part of Washington’s rebuild. Standing at 7 feet, Sarr offers tantalizing potential with his athleticism and length. However, his shaky Summer League performance has raised concerns about his readiness for the NBA. The Wizards have had a mixed history with high draft picks, making Sarr’s development crucial for their long-term success. The team hopes he will emerge as a key player alongside last year’s lottery pick, Bilal Coulibaly.
Season Outlook
The Wizards are once again in full rebuilding mode and seem destined for another lottery season. The team hasn’t made it past the second round of the playoffs since 1979, and that drought won’t end this year. However, if their young players, including Sarr and Coulibaly, show meaningful growth, it will be a step in the right direction for Washington. The biggest question is whether the front office will explore trading Kyle Kuzma as part of their long-term strategy.
While this season may not yield many wins, it will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of the Wizards’ rebuild and evaluating whether their new core of young players can eventually bring success back to D.C.
