Washington, D.C. — The Washington Wizards believe their recent acquisition of Trae Young gives the franchise both an on-court leader and a marketing focal point it has lacked since John Wall and Bradley Beal moved on.
Wizards Target Three-Year Deal for Young
League executives expect Young to sign an extension with Washington, according to reporting from ESPN’s Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst. Grant Afseth of Dallas Hoops Journal added that a three-year agreement in the neighborhood of $120 million is viewed as a realistic framework, mirroring the structure Brandon Ingram accepted after his mid-season trade to Toronto last year.
Warriors’ Reserves Provide Needed Spark
Golden State has hovered around the .500 mark, but a recent victory over Milwaukee highlighted the impact of head coach Steve Kerr’s second unit. NBC Sports Bay Area’s Monte Poole noted that Stephen Curry was the only starter with a positive net rating, while all five bench players finished in the plus column.
Rookie guard Brandin Podziemski posted a plus-19, Gui Santos recorded a plus-12, DeAnthony Melton poured in 22 points, and Al Horford contributed eight points, 10 rebounds, six assists, and two blocks. Draymond Green praised Melton and Horford as “guys that connect our lineups,” and Curry said their recent availability has stabilized the rotation.
Suns Stand Firm on Dillon Brooks
After Suns owner Mat Ishbia publicly shut down speculation about trading Dillon Brooks, the forward said he appreciated the show of faith, telling The Arizona Republic’s Duane Rankin that the endorsement “feels good.” Brooks is under contract through the 2026-27 season and becomes eligible for an extension this summer, with Phoenix insisting he remains part of its long-term plans.
Source: Hoops Wire
