WASHINGTON, D.C. — As the Wizards push through a comprehensive rebuild, the organization is pouring money into staffing and infrastructure, league sources told The Stein Line. Club officials believe the investment is helping attract elite prospects; recent top talents such as Alex Sarr and Ace Bailey have reportedly shown strong interest in Washington.
On the floor, Washington has stumbled to a 1-12 start and owns the NBA’s worst net rating (-16.1). Veteran wing Corey Kispert, 26, said the team’s youngest players benefit from heavy minutes, but warned that “winning is a skill” that must be learned in real game situations. “I’m really looking forward to these guys getting more opportunities to learn how to win,” he added.
Magic Lean on Anthony Black
Orlando guard Anthony Black broke a stretch of low-scoring nights with 18 points in Sunday’s loss to Houston, then recorded a season-best 21 in Tuesday’s victory over Golden State. Forward Franz Wagner called Black “a super-important player for our team” and said the 2023 No. 6 overall pick can “impact the game on both sides” when he brings the right energy. With several regulars sidelined, the Magic expect the 20-year-old to maintain that level of play.
Heat Face Butler, Track Adebayo’s Return
Miami meets the Warriors on Wednesday for the first time this season, marking Jimmy Butler’s initial matchup with the Heat since last winter’s contentious split. Head coach Erik Spoelstra downplayed the storyline, noting Butler already visited Miami in March. Center Bam Adebayo, out the past six games with a left big-toe sprain, said he is optimistic he will be available, emphasizing the team’s focus on continued strong play rather than “chasing a headline.”
Jakucionis Assigned to Sioux Falls
First-round pick Kasparas Jakucionis, unable to crack Miami’s rotation, has joined the G League’s Sioux Falls Skyforce. The 19-year-old guard has appeared in two games and views the stint as a chance for vital live reps. “I just need live basketball,” he said. “I think it’s good to come here, play, and the development part is very good.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
