The Wizards need to finish with one of the NBA’s four worst records this season to guarantee they keep their first-round pick, which is top-eight protected to New York. Alas, the roster should not impede them from pulling off this feat. (The Wizards will owe the Knicks second-rounders in 2026 and 2027 if the first-rounder doesn’t convey.)
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Expect the Wizards to continue building that draft pick war chest during the season, likely in deals that send out contributors such as McCollum, Middleton, Kispert and the wildly underrated Justin Champagnie. Don’t expect many wins just yet, but after two wasted decades spent chasing the eighth seed, Washington is doing this the right way.