The Washington Wizards have had a bittersweet first half to their 2016-2017 NBA season. Though their .500 record of 19-19 is far below expectations coming into this season, the Wizards have improved their play over the past month or so. The first season of Coach Scott Brooks’ tenure could certainly be considered a disappointment by many, but the rise of superstar point guard John Wall’s play to another level is no coincidence.
However, if the Wizards want to make some real noise in the Eastern Conference instead of scraping their way into the playoffs, the roster could surely use some adjustments via free agency or through a trade before the deadline passes on February 23rd.
If Washington were to make any moves in the future big or small, it appears Brooks will be heavily involved in those decisions. Following from CSN Mid Atlantic’s J. Michael:
As the Wizards (19-19) move closer to the midpoint of the season, they might need to juggle the look of the roster. Like Randy Wittman before him, Brooks will have his say with president Ernie Grunfeld entering the trade deadline and runs the on-court operation as he sees fit.
“One thing I love about Ernie, he loves the game, he loves talking basketball, loves talking players,” Brooks said. “We’re always in communication. I have big respect for him. … We’re always talking how we can improve our team, the team we have, how guys are playing. He never tells me who to play. Never tells me how we should play. I ask him for suggestions. He’s been around a long time. He’s seen a lot of basketball.”
Since Scott Brooks was named head coach, most of Washington’s acquisitions have flopped. Center Ian Mahinmi, who was inked to a healthy 4 year $64 million deal this summer, remains sidelined due to recurring knee issues. Though Jason Smith has played a larger role as of late, veterans Marcus Thornton and Andrew Nicholson have fallen out of the rotation completely.
With Washington potentially looking to bolster their roster and advance their standing in the constantly fluctuating Eastern Conference, it makes sense for Brooks to be able to give his two cents on any roster decisions that may be made.
