Washington Wizards Expected To Pursue Young Center This Off-Season

The Washington Wizards have struggled for many years in the Eastern Conference, but in 2026, there has been immense optimism built for the future. With young stars like Bilal Coulibaly, Kyshawn George, and Alex Sarr leading the way, this team sits at just 10–34, but in 2026–27, they could be a brand new team.

Not only will they have Trae Young after picking him up in a deal earlier this season, but they will likely have another top draft pick if their luck continues the way it has in 2025–26. On top of that, according to reports, they're looking to add a big-time defensive presence down low, with the team ready to make another splash after the Trae Young deal.

According to Tim MacMahon, the Wizards are expected to make a “significant offer” for Utah Jazz star Walker Kessler, and while they've got Sarr at the five right now, Kessler would be the perfect player to balance this lineup. In 2025–26, the 24-year-old has averaged a career-high 14.4 points per game to go along with 11 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks per game.

Given the immense improvements in his game, along with the way he affects the game at the defensive end, the Wizards won't be the only team chasing Kessler, as he's already proven to be a top-flight defender in the league at such a young age. Ultimately, though, if Washington could add Kessler to go along with Young, their young core, and another top draft pick, this could certainly be a team to watch out for in the East moving forward.