By Mark Bacon
My favorite season is beginning. Basketball season. The Washington Wizards (or Bullets, if you prefer), begin training camp at Towson University’s campus this morning. Questions surround the team as they seek to improve on their 46-36 record from last year and advance beyond the second round of the playoffs.
Just how committed are the Wizards to adopting small-ball this year? I’m sure they are going to use perimeter oriented lineups this season; the frequency remains the question. They have the players to do it and to continue utilizing the option over the 82-game regular season. That offensive scheme best exploits John Wall’s unique talents. The Wiz also want to remain physical. They’re among the league’s defensive leaders. I don’t think they plan on dumping the traditional frontline of Marcin Gortat and Nene Hilario completely.
But that begs the question, what exactly will be Nene’s role? He was the starting power forward during the regular season and postseason games, but he became backup center in the playoffs when Washington went with perimeter oriented play more often. Coach Randy Wittman has mentioned there could be some changes in the starting lineups this season depending on matchups. Nene could be used as the back-up in the pivot.
Most troubling to me is filling the leadership void Paul Pierce left behind when he signed with the Clippers. The team thinks the void will be filled with the additions of Alan Anderson and Jared Dudley. Much also hinges on Otto Porter Jr.’s continued development. But Pierce’s off-court contributions will be difficult to replace. Anderson and Dudley are veteran leaders, but that responsibility will also fall on John Wall, as it should.
Does Otto Porter continue where he left off in the postseason? Coach Wittman hinted early this week that Porter is the frontrunner to replace Pierce in their starting lineup. Otto was at his best last season playing with the starters, particularly in the playoffs when he became an important component, averaging 10 points and eight rebounds over 33 minutes. Now in his third season, Porter could also see significant minutes at power forward.
Last, will Bradley Beal sign a contract extension before the October 31st deadline? Beal wants the max and the team isn’t going to give him it yet. Beal stated this week he isn’t “worried about it” and is confident the two sides will come to an agreement. After July 1, will the Wizards be more willing to offer the max? I would hope it’s one of their primary goals. It won’t mean much if it doesn’t happen by October’s end, but the team should sign Beal for the long-term, while maintaining the most salary-cap flexibility possible for free agency next summer, and the desired signing of Kevin Durant. Imagine KD, Wall and Beal on one team. Nirvana for Washington Wizards fans.
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