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One of the more exciting times of the year for Wizards fans –unfortunately — tends to be the draft lottery.  When things fell into place last night, and it was apparent that Washington was in the top three, and that is when things really got interesting.  Just from past conditioning, most fans had come to expect that the Wizards would get the fourth or fifth pick.  When ESPN went to a commercial break before announcing the top three, even the most pessimistic of fans were buying back in and hoping that the ‘Fear the Brow’ campaign would be coming to DC.

Shortly after the break, Washington was the first team revealed, giving them the third overall pick. It is hard not to be disappointed once the Wizards found themselves in the running, but they will still be able to come away with a high quality player who can make an immediate impact on the roster.  With their selection, the Wizards will be looking to add a starter who can play right away.

The first pick is all but made already, with New Orleans winning the Anthony Davis sweepstakes.  The Wizards are going to have their shot at a starter, but the players available will depend on what Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats decide to do as they have the second pick in front of Washington.  You never know what MJ is going to do, as he could pull a curve ball and select UCONN center Andre Drummond, or his UNC guy Harrison Barnes.  The more likely scenario is Charlotte selecting one of either Thomas Robinson, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, or Bradley Beal.

If things go as planned, Washington will have their pick at two of the latter three above. The Wizards have holes everywhere, and selecting any of these players will provide an immediate upgrade.  Robinson would provide a tough nosed inside presence to pair with Nene, and a guy who goes after rebounds relentlessly.  Kidd-Gilchrist would become the started at the 3 position, again providing an upgrade in the toughness department.  His ability to finish strong in traffic would be a huge plus alongside John Wall.  Selecting Beal would give back court running mate Wall a strong offensive option, as he can knock down spot up shots and hit the outside jumper.

Either way, Washington is in a good position.  As long as GM Ernie Grunfeld does not select a guy who can’t contribute right away, the Wizards should see an immediate return on their investment.

Who do you want the Wizards to take third overall?

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