Courtesy: Bleacher Report
Despite the recent Paul Pierce signing, the Washington Wizards have been one of the low-key teams this free agency. Washington may of lost Trevor Ariza, but they were able to retain Marcin Gortat. Washington has continued its success in the front court this off season by adding Kris Humphries and DeJuan Blair.
Courtesy: CBS Local Boston
They has made great off season moves so far by adding depth to their frontcourt and improving their biggest weakness. Washington first signed Humphries to deal worth $13 million over three years. He will be filling the role of Trevor Booker in Washington’s rotation, who signed with the Utah Jazz. Humphries is still young and can provide much needed rebounding and a tough interior presence in Washington’s rotation. Last season, he averaged 8.4 points and 5.9 rebounds, which is statically better than Booker’s contributions to Washington, which is why signing Humphries should be looked at as a positive move by the Wizards franchise.
Another great pickup came in a sign-and-trade deal with the Dallas Mavericks. The Wizards received DeJuan Blair and the Mavericks received a second round draft pick and the rights to Emir Preldzic. Like Humphries, DeJuan provides a tough physical inside presence. He is also a very solid and physical defender. He can play both power forward and center, which I expect him to make major contributions on both sides of the front court. Last season, he averaged 6.4 points and 4.7 rebounds off the bench for the Mavericks. His match up down low was also a key component to Dallas taking the San Antonio Spurs to seven games in the opening round of last year’s playoffs.
The Wizards have had a good off season so far by adding Paul Pierce in wake of Trevor Ariza’s departure. It is also very important that the team has added depth to their front court this offseason. Washington’s roster is on the up swing and I wouldn’t be surprised to see this roster make a run at Eastern Conference championship.
