Photo: Peter Baba

The Washington Wizards entered the season fully aware of the challenges ahead, yet the struggles have proven even more daunting than anticipated.

Despite this, the franchise remains resolute in its commitment to the long-term development of its young players, adhering to the strategy outlined before the season began.

“We are immersed in a very difficult stretch right now,” Wizards general manager Will Dawkins told The Athletic.

“But we remain committed to the long-term sustainability of the organization,” Dawkins emphasized. “Our staff and players have continued to work, and are growing. We will continue to stack the positive developmental gains and, at the end of the season, put proper perspective on the totality of the year.

“Don’t worry about the whole thing right now; at the end of the year, let’s look up and see what we accomplished. They’re getting better, and they’re still working, and that’s the main thing. What we signed up for is hard, and we know it.”

Dawkins previously described the team’s current phase as “deconstruction,” signaling an ongoing effort to reconfigure the roster by trading veteran players while prioritizing the development of young talent.

This season has reflected that approach, with several veterans moving in and out of the lineup as part of various deals.

The Wizards have focused on giving their youthful core substantial playing time to foster their growth. First-round picks Bilal Coulibaly (2023) and Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George (2024) have emerged as the centerpiece of Washington’s future plans.

Each of these players is logging significant minutes, ranging between 26.2 and 34.8 per game, signaling the organization’s dedication to their development.

While the results may be grueling in the short term, the Wizards are steadfast in their long-term vision, believing that the experience and improvement gained this season will eventually pay dividends in the future.

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