Wizards Playoff Bound In 2013

After watching several Summer League games, I am convinced that the Wizards will return to the playoff this season. While the Summer League does't include most veterans, Coach Randy Wittman has a solid group of youngsters who will add a spark off the bench this season. I realize the level of competition is far below regular season NBA standards, yet Jan Vesely, Chris Singleton and Shelvin Mack have made considerable progress from their rookie season. If there was any doubt, top draft pick Bradley Beal is the real deal and second round selection Tomas Santoranksy appears NBA ready. Unfortunately, the Czech combo guard probably won't migrate over for at least another season.

Emeka Okafor 6'10" 255 (29)

Nene 6'11" 250 (29)

Trevor Ariza 6'8" 210 (27)

Bradley Beal 6'5" 210 (19)

John Wall 6'4" 195 (21)

Okafor and Nene provide a rugged interior defense, equally proficient on the defensive boards. Ariza brings experience to the wing at the three and improves the overall defense and excels on the break. Two years from now, when Okafor and Ariza's contracts expire, the Wizards will be major players in free agency.

Kevin Seraphin 6'9" 275 (22)

Trevor Booker 6'8" 240 (24)

Jan Vesely 6'11" 240 (22)

Chris Singleton 6'8" 230 (22)

Cartier Martin 6'7" 220 (27)

Jordan Crawford 6'4" 195 (23)

Shelvin Mack 6'3" 210 (22)

Seraphin and Vesley should provide strong minutes in reserve and wll be given evey opportunty to take over two years from now. Singleton and Martin bring diferent skills to he wing, while Crawford figures to be an explosive option behind Beal. If Mack can provide solid depth behind Wall, the Wizards won't have to scour free agency for a veteran backup.

Missing from these depth charts is Andray Blatche. It is quite clear the Wizards will either trade him or use their amnesty clause on him sometime this week. Washington should take whatever they can get, as opposed to amnesty, whether it be a lottery protected draft pick or a Euro player stashed on some NBA roster.