With a slow start to their season morphing into an overall putrid campaign rapidly, the Washington Wizards are left frantically searching for answers.
With a current mark of 5-11, the Wizards have gone from perennial playoff contender to an afterthought in a shallow Eastern Conference. The Wizards know time is ticking, as was evident by their efforts to land a third superstar via trade such as Kawhi Leonard or Jimmy Butler. However, now the Wizards may be looking to ship a star of their own. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Wizards have made guards John Wall and Bradley Beal both available in trade discussions.
As the Washington Wizards’ season spirals, the franchise has started to deliver teams an impression that every player on their roster — including All-Star guards John Wall and Bradley Beal — is available for discussion in trade scenarios, league sources told ESPN.
Washington’s preference remains to reshape the team around Wall and Beal, but poor play among key teammates is limiting their trade value and paralyzing the Wizards’ efforts to make meaningful changes to a roster that no longer appears functional together, league sources said.
After being reluctant to split with either member of their All-Star backcourt in previous discussions, it seems the Wizards are coming to terms with the fact that a major change is needed. John Wall and Bradley Beal have served as Washington’s focal points for nearly half a decade now, but that partnership may finally be nearing an expiration date.
Despite Washington now entertaining offers for their guard tandem, it remains to be seen the interest the two hold on the open market. Beal is likely the more attractive piece, as he is not only younger than Wall, but also the more polished offensive player on a friendlier contract. A contending team in need of one more elite perimeter piece could take a stab at Beal, though the asking price certainly still won’t be low despite how rough things are looking in the Nation’s Capital.
Things get a little trickier when pertaining to John Wall. Though he’s recognized as one of the premier athletes at the point guard position today, there are questions as to just how much value he holds. His numbers have dipped slightly this season, most notably his assists which is what made him so dangerous as a floor general. Couple these qualms with a hefty contract that is yet to kick in and an extensive injury history and the market for Wall may be rather slim.
Regardless, it’s becoming more and more apparent a change and perhaps major overhaul is needed in Washington. Though they had hoped at first that would mean retaining both Beal and Wall, desperate times call for equally desperate measures.
