Washington Wizards General Manager Tommy Sheppard is facing huge problems with the organization's roster of players. On top of that, the team is also in a mess with regards to its salary cap.
The Wizards is facing huge monetary problem once John Wall's supermax extension takes effect next season, and four seasons after that. The organization is also poised to pay $15.5 million to Ian Mahinmi. If there is a silver lining regarding these issues, it is that Sheppard was able to get the Wizards below the tax number by dealing Dwight Howard and not signing three payers - Bobby Portis, Tomas Satoransky, and Jabari Parker. Sheppard also tried to recruit inexpensive talents like Moritz Waggner, Rui Hachimura, and Davis Bertans.
Because of these maneuverings, Sheppard was finally given the GM job title instead of being just an "interim" post. Sheppard's biggest undertaking is still to be complete. On July 26, the Wizards will be eligible to offer a three-year contract extension to Bradley Beal reportedly worth $111 million.
According to league rumors, the Wizards to try to convince Beal to stay with the team by offering it with this contract extension. However, there is a growing rumor circulating around league insiders that Beal might not sign this deal.
The latter rumor makes sense for Beal as he is projected to earn more if he decides to turn down the deal. According to Yahoo Sport's Dan Feldman, there are four possible scenarios that he can take. The least profitable of which is if he signs the contract extension.
As mentioned, re-signing Beal would be Sheppard's biggest test. The league is waiting for his strategy on how to handle this situation. Should Beal decide to turn down the Wizard's offer, the team will be inundated with trade offers for the 26-year-old star. Beal has already proved his mettle on the court, and whether he demands for a bigger payout, he will definitely be worth it.
This might also open up a lot of interesting options for the Wizards. With Beal on the trading block, the Wizards can easily find a great trade for him as there are a number of team in the past that have shown interest towards him.
The NBA offseason has been rocked by notable trades and signings. The league has been turned upside down with the previous dynasties falling, the next season's title's is surely in great contention.
