Washington Wizards Free Agent Targets: Available Big Men

Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Marcin Gortat is currently in Poland spending time with his ailing mother. While he’s expected to be back soon, the Washington Wizards have been forced to move forward without their starting center. Unfortunately, they’ve also been forced to move forward without any legitimate options at the center position.

Nene, Kris Humphries and Drew Gooden have all suffered injuries and will miss an indefinite amount of time. Washington has relied on Ryan Hollins, who’s on a non-guaranteed contract, and DeJuan Blair for minutes. Needless to say, relying on either of those bigs isn’t exactly ideal.

Instead of giving Hollins and Blair an extended amount of playing time, Randy Wittman has been playing super small-ball with lineups consisting of four guards and Jared Dudley. That’s right: Dudley, a 6’7″ wing, has played center for the Wizards this season.

The change to small-ball was necessary, but I don’t think anyone expected this. Washington should look to continue playing small, but they also need a big man on their roster who’s capable of contributing in spurts. Right now, they don’t have that.

Hollins was a bad signing from the get-go. He does a solid job at running the floor with the guards, but isn’t capable of finishing inside and provides loose rim protection. He started on Sunday night against the Dallas Mavericks and only played five minutes. I wouldn’t expect him to stick around much longer.

Washington should look to sign another big man who actually might contribute in a positive manner. Here’s a look at who’s available.