Fresh off what was a drama-filled and disappointing 2017-18 season, the Washington Wizards are apparently looking to retool their roster this summer.
While that could potentially include trading either John Wall or Bradley Beal, it seems that Washington is looking to make lesser moves.
According to Ben Standig of The Sports Capital, that includes potentially moving the 15th overall pick in addition to expiring contracts to a team that has cap room.
“The Wizards are open to trading down from the 15th overall pick in Thursday’s draft if another team takes on one of Washington’s expiring contracts,” Standig reported. “That’s the message relayed from the Wizards to other NBA teams.”
In a vacuum, it makes a ton of sense. Washington’s supporting cast has been among the worst in the game over the past couple seasons. Why not look to retool with higher-upside options in free agency?
Washington currently finds itself well over the cap, with the likes of John Wall, Bradley Beal, Otto Porter Jr. and Marcin Gortat counting a combined $85 million against the cap next season.
Of the five expiring contracts Washington has on its roster, Markieff Morris and Gortat would likely interest others teams the most.
It’s certainly a storyline to follow heading into Thursday’s draft. Selecting 15th overall, Washington’s pick is extremely valuable in a loaded draft class. It wouldn’t be a shock to see a team like Atlanta or Chicago make a play for this selection.