The Washington Wizards won the Paul Pierce sweepstakes last offseason in free agency and by all accounts the forward did exactly what was asked for him. His presence propelled the Wizards to the Eastern Conference semifinals where the eventually lost to the Atlanta Hawks. There was a lot of chatter that Pierce planned on retiring following the heartbreaking exit from the postseason, but now that might not be the case. However, his return might not be to Washington.
According to the Washington Post, Pierce plans on returning for another season in the NBA despite hinting at some doubt over the idea after the playoffs. However, Jorge Castillo of the Post is reporting that Pierce does plan on opting out of his $5.5 million option with the Wizards and becoming a free agent, meaning the chances he comes back to Washington are slim.
Castillo writes that the most likely landing spot outside of Washington for Pierce is the Los Angeles Clippers who can offer a reunion with former head coach Doc Rivers. The Clippers are tight on salary cap space and could only offer the veteran a midlevel taxpayer exception worth $3.4 million. The Wizards can offer a deal north of $6 million. However, Pierce is originally from Los Angeles and has a deep relationship with Rivers which could be a major factor.
So what does Washington do if Pierce does depart for the west coast? His replacement could come in the NBA Draft. According to InsideHoops.com, the Wizards are very interested in UCLA forward Kevon Looney who has visited for a pre-draft workout.The 19-year-old would pair well alongside John Wall and Bradley Beal while working in tandem with Otto Porter. The Wizards are also looking at SEC Player of the Year Bobby Portis who could replace Nene under the basket.
The Wizards will have some decisions to make in free agency. The Washington Post is reporting that Beal is not likely to earn an extension this offseason despite being able to get signed now. Meanwhile, Nene is reaching the end of his time due to age and Porter is working on team options for the next few seasons. The Wizards are hoping to win the Kevin Durant race which means they will be careful in how they spend their money. Paul Millsap, Luol Deng or Corey Brewer could also end up being free agent targets this offseason if Pierce decides to leave.
