The Washington Wizards off-season continues to go in the wrong direction. Free agent Mike Scott spurned the Wizards to sign a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
Free agent Mike Scott has agreed to a one-year deal with the Clippers, league sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 2, 2018
Scott rejuvenated his career with the Wizards last season, averaging 8.8 points while shooting 52.7 percent from the field and 40.5 percent from three in 76 regular season games. His strong performance followed in the playoffs as he posted a net rating of 9.9, shooting 63.4 percent from the field and 63.6 percent from three while averaging 10.8 points.
Bringing back Scott was a top priority for the Wizards being in constant contact with his agent, Aaron Mint. However, he had interested from other teams, and the Clippers were aggressive towards securing a commitment from the former University of Virginia product.
Scott’s departure leaves another huge hole in the Wizards’ frontcourt. They already are down a center with the trade of Marcin Gortat, who Scott will join with the Clippers. The team reportedly pursued Nerlens Noel, but lost out to the Oklahoma City Thunder for his services. Right now, Ian Mahinmi, Jason Smith, and Markieff Morris are the three bigs remaining on Washington’s roster.
Remember when John Wall pleaded for a more athletic big man? Well, the Wizards are now down a center and backup stretch-four. While general manager Ernie Grunfeld says the Wizards are “comfortable” with Mahinmi starting at center, they are is dire need of adding depth to the frontcourt, preferably with more athleticism and versatility that currently on the roster.
