Signature Win For Wizards

Despite having the worst record in the NBA, the Wizards hold a great deal of promise. That potential was shown during Wednesday night's 105-102 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

John Wall had the kind of game that most expected when he was the top pick overall in the 2010 NBA draft. Wall continues to struggle from the floor, but was deadly from the line in the big win.

It wasn't that long ago when the Wizards were an aging team, led by Gilbert Arenas, Antawn Jamison and Caron Butler. That team was stuck in a one and done playoff rut. When you can't get over that hurdle, and continue to pick in the middle of the draft, things just aren't going to improve.

The Wizards took a step back by trading their lottery pick in the 2009 NBA draft for veterans Mike Miller and Randy Foye. Management felt the perimeter help might get them to the next level, but it was the beginning of the end. Minnesota used that pick to select Ricky Rubio who is emerging as one of the Association's new stars.

Fast forwarding, new ownership is in place, payroll reduced and exciting young talent is being accumulated.  A solid 2011 draft brought three new players that are already contributing and will only get better. Next season, the club will use its amnesty clause to eliminate the contract of Rashard Lewis and will be in position to be a major player in free agency.

The sum is currently less than the parts, but we have seen a glimpse of the future.

Tom Blaz is Chief Editor of DC PRO and co-owner of The Recruiting Eagle a website focusing on Auburn University Athletics.