Bobby Portis could be moving on from the Washington Wizards as free agency approaches.
Portis is seeking onward of $16 million annually in his next deal which could be too pricey for the Wizards’ liking. According to Tony Jones and Fred Katz of the Athletic, the Wizards aren’t expected to match a huge offer sheet.
The Wizards acquired Portis along with Jabari Parker in the trade that sent Otto Porter Jr. to the Chicago Bulls. Portis became available in large due to the money he was seeking was out of the price range of the Bulls’ liking.
Now, the Wizards face the reality of losing out on the return they got for Porter. Several teams are expected to line up with interest in Portis which should drive up the price range. Portis has reportedly expressed interest in the Utah Jazz.
Bobby Portis is coming off a career-year in which he averaged 14.2 points and 8.1 rebounds (8.6 in 28 games with the Wizards). He also shot a career-high 39.3 percent from three (40.3% with Wizards) and 79.4 percent from the free throw line (80.9% with Wizards). That’s production Washington would love to have return for the 2019-20 season from it’s frontcourt.
Unfortunately, as things appear the Wizards may have to look elsewhere as Portis could depart for a huge payday when free agency begins Sunday.
The Wizards entered the off-season with $90 million committed with just five guaranteed salaries on the book for next season. Over $38 million will account for the injured John Wall, who is expected to miss most, if not all, of the next season with a torn Achilles, making their efforts to improve the roster difficult.
The Wizards are reportedly interested in re-signing Parker, who the team is expected to decline a $20 million option. Parker may seek around $15 million annually. Washington also has the likes of Tomas Satoransky, Thomas Bryant, and Jeff Green as pending free agents.
