NBA Rumors: Wizards Getting Inquiries About Surprising Player

The Washington Wizards have been mentioned in trade rumors this season for the likes of Kyle Kuzma, who will become an unrestricted free agent, or even (the Los Angeles Lakers hope) star Bradley Beal. But according to a report, they're also getting trade inquiries about a player who isn't even in their rotation. 

Some #Wizards news on Chris’ report. Rival executives have been calling Tommy Sheppard about Will Barton since he’s collected DNP-CDs. So, Will may not be an automatic buyout just yet. #NBA https://t.co/Qqs94jrnM1

— Faisal Hassan (@Faazzla) January 13, 2023

Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report tells us that rival execs have been calling the Wiz asking about Will Barton, who hasn't been contributing much for the team this year.

Barton has been dropped from coach Wes Unseld Jr.'s rotation over the last three weeks, receiving four DNP-CDs (did not play, coach's decision), and receiving an average of just over six minutes a game when he does play. The vultures must be circling, sensing an opportunity to pounce while the price is low. 

The 32-year-old's scoring has been down by 50% this season, to just 7.5 points per game (from 14.7 last year), though his three-point shooting has remained steady at 36.5%. 

Barton, a 10-year veteran, is on an expiring $14.4M deal. It's his first year in DC after eight seasons in Denver.

Haynes notes that the Wizards aren't actively shopping Barton yet, but if the calls continue to come in, and he can't crack the rotation, it might behoove them to get something of value for the vet, who is unlikely to be back next season. 

Barton has career marks of 11.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 35.5% from three.

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