The term “rebuild” is now very common in the NBA world. It is used by managers to justify, often after the explosion of a more or less competitive workforce, a lean period of several seasons to come. This is the case of the Wizards, who turned the page on the Bradley Beal years in 2023.
But taking a closer look, and keeping the metaphor of the building to analyze the situation, the Washington franchise is not yet rebuilding, believes Will Dawkins.
“If we really think about the phases of reconstruction, there is already one of deconstruction”, recalls the GM. “Then we lay the foundations, then we rebuild, finally we consolidate. We are still in the process of deconstruction and the foundations, and it is important to remind everyone of that. We are still at the beginning of the process. »
“Are we going to make huge progress? Probably not right away”
Last season was catastrophic, with only 15 successes, but if we should not expect miracles for the coming year, progress is still expected, even necessary.
“I can't wait to see what Brian Keefe has done. He's had the whole offseason to think about what style he wants to adopt.”continues the leader. “He has a better understanding of the hard core of this group, and he has hired a staff who will push him to think. I'm very excited about the style. […] Are we going to make huge progress? Probably not right away. But in terms of efforts, intentions, it will be better. »
Will Dawkins also adds that the Wizards will be stronger on defense, which won't be very difficult since they were among the worst in the league last season. However, there is no doubt that Jordan Poole (25 years old) will be the most scrutinized player in the capital, after his failed 2023/24 season.
“I think he’s approaching his best years. He's not very far away, given his age.”judges the GM. “He is more comfortable here, more comfortable with the group. I think he will have the ball in his hands more than at the start of last season, and with a style that suits him more, in terms of pace. He and Kyle Kuzma will be our leaders. »
