While the Washington Wizards have publicly said that they plan to be competitive in 2026-27, they still have plenty of questions to answer in the offseason.
Washington Wizards Offseason: Needs, Key Free Agents, Draft Capital, and Trade Candidates
Washington made major plays at the February trade deadline with the acquisition of Trae Young and Anthony Davis. Still, the Wizards finished with the worst record in the NBA at 17-65, marking the third straight season that they won fewer than 20 games. The Wizards have not made the NBA playoffs in six seasons, and last posted a winning record since 2017-18.
Granted, the Wizards were the second-youngest team in the league and dealt with numerous injuries, with only four players appearing in more than 60 games. The Wizards used 26 different players, with Young appearing in just five games, while Davis didn’t suit up at all.
Washington finished the season ranked in the bottom third in offensive rating and last in defense. While the Wizards need to improve their shooting — finishing 21st in the league in effective field goal percentage — their biggest deficiencies are on defense, rebounding, and turnover rate.
There were some positives. Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George took a step forward in their development despite nearly missing half of the season. Sarr was much more efficient offensively and one of the best shot blockers in the game this season. He also registered 12 double-doubles, which is two more than last season.
Bilal Coulibaly and Bub Carrington continued their improvement in year 3. Meanwhile, Jaden Hardy finally showed that he can be a regular rotational player in his short stint after coming over from Dallas. Tre Johnson and Will Riley showed flashes as rookies, specifically as scorers.
The Wizards have 14 players under contract for next season with salaries totaling $174.6 million. Thus, putting the Wizards’ $9.6 million over the cap for next year. They are $26.3 million under the tax and $47.3 million clear of the second apron.
Anthony is the Wizards’ only unrestricted free agent. Young ($48.96 million) and D’Angelo Russell ($5.96 million) hold player options. Meanwhile, Justin Champaigne’s deal is nonguaranteed for $2.6 million, and Jamir Watkins is a team option ($2.15 million).
Champaigne has established himself as a valuable contributor off the bench. He is a good rebounder and a nearly 50% career field-goal shooter. His contract doesn’t fully guarantee until January 10, but expect him to be on the team unless traded.
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