In case there was any doubt on draft night that the Wizards were bowing out of the free agency home run chase, they solidified their position with the acquisition of Yi Jianlian on Tuesday. Washington still needs scoring and a center. With the ability only to sign mid-level players — assuming they decline Josh Howard’s option — here are a few potential targets. Buyer beware:
Mike Miller, guard
A hustler and reluctant sharpshooter, Miller could return to Washington, but it would be hard for him to turn down a chance to play with his good friend LeBron James. The question is, will James land in a situation where Miller fits?
Luis Scola, forward
He’s a restricted free agent with a reasonable tender ($4.1 million), and there’s little reason he shouldn’t remain in Houston. However, should one of the big-time free agents join the Rockets, he might be on the move.
Josh Childress, forward
A versatile option off the bench down the road, Childress can play defense. There have been rumors overseas about the Wizards’ interest, but Atlanta still owns his rights, adding some complicating variables.
Player X????
It could be re-signing Howard at a lower price, which doesn’t seem enticing considering he’s expected to be out until December. Or it could be a massive trade, perhaps of Gilbert Arenas, which seems unlikely and somewhat out of character for Ted Leonsis and Ernie Grunfeld considering the moves they’ve already made. The trick for Wizards fans will be to remain patient because, unlike last year, the Wizards aren’t going all-in for 2010.
