Wizards Plan Rebuild With Three Picks In 2025 NBA Draft

The Washington Wizards are in the midst of a full rebuild following a difficult 2024-25 season and are approaching the 2025 NBA Draft with a focus on establishing a young core and building for the future. Holding the 6th, 18th, and 40th picks, they aim to add both high-potential talent like Texas freshman shooting guard Tre Johnson and fundamentally sound role players such as UConn's Liam McNeeley or Georgetown's Thomas Sorber to complement emerging stars like Alex Sarr and Kyshawn George. Trade rumors surround the team, including the possible move of Jordan Poole, who had a career-best season and could be leveraged to improve draft positioning or roster composition. Reflecting on past decisions, the Wizards missed out on drafting Tyrese Haliburton in 2020, a player now leading the Indiana Pacers deep into the playoffs, highlighting the challenges of rebuilding. Meanwhile, the Toronto Raptors, holding the 9th pick, look to revitalize their offense by targeting creative guard Kasparas Jakučionis, aiming to address their poor offensive rating and lack of depth. Overall, the Wizards' draft strategy and potential trades underscore a patient but strategic effort to rebuild a competitive team through a mix of promising young talent and veteran assets.