The Wizards waived center Anzejs Pasecniks over the weekend and now have an open roster spot.
Pasecniks split time between the Capital City Go-Go and the NBA club last season on a two-way contract for the Wizards. This year, he had a partially guaranteed minimum-salary contract.
Washington has not played a game since January 11 due to COVID-19 health and safety protocols. The team didn’t have the mandatory eight healthy players available, forcing the league to postpone contests against the Jazz, Pistons, and Cavs (2).
It’s likely that the franchise signs someone to replace AP. Let’s take a look at some players who would fit on the team (a full list of available free agents can be found here):
- Rondae Hollis-Jefferson: Defense has been a major issue for Washington. Ditto with their forward rotation. RHJ, who was a surprise cut by the Wolves prior to the season may be able to help in both areas.
- Justin Anderson: While some may worry about the void Thomas Bryant‘s injury leaves, I’d focus on filling in other areas on the team if I were the GM, allowing Moritz Wagner, Robin Lopez, and Rui Hachimura play all the center minutes for now. With that said, Justin Anderson, who was close to making the team last season, would give them an option on the wing who has some familiarity with Bradley Beal and others on the team.
- Ian Mahinmi: Let’s say the team looks to add a center to replace AP, Mahinmi is another player who the franchise is familiar with. Last season in Washington, the big man was able to provide the team with spot starts and veteran leadership. He’d be a welcomed addition to Scott Brooks‘ locker room if his health can hold up.
- Omari Spellman: The former Villanova product has played both power forward and center during his two seasons in the league (ATL/GS). He’s showcased an ability to be a long-range threat, making 39.1% of his looks from behind the arc last season. Spellman was nursing a knee injury, something that forced the Knicks to waive him earlier in the month. If he’s healthy, he’d be a great fit in Washington.
- Kevin Porter Jr: The forward is reportedly on the outs in Cleveland after a recent outburst that apparently is part of overall behavior issues. Perhaps a change of scenery would help and joining Russell Westbrook‘s squad would make for a no-nonsense atmosphere. It would be a risk but a low risk for the Wizards, though I’d imagine Tommy Sheppard & Co. will do some heavy investigating into all of KPJ’s incidents.
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