NBA Trade Rumors: Washington Wizards Should Unload Maurice Evans If They Can

Despite all the hope that uber-talented point guard John Wall has brought to Washington, the Wizards have yet to realize much of that potential on the court. With the team sitting at a dismal 3-15 on the season, it’s only natural that both the fans and the young team would start looking ahead to the future.

As reported by cbssports.com, the 2012 free agent class has Washington looking to clear cap space. One option the team is considering to free up some room is to trade reserve wings Maurice Evans and/or Roger Mason.

It’s not obvious that there would be a huge market for either player, with Evans—who’s played just two games this season while battling a knee injury—being a particularly tough sell. Even so, both have some scoring ability and have proven in the past that they can be effective off the bench.

Whether Washington can make either of these salary-dumping moves is likely to depend on how many experienced guards are on the market. If a buyer is to be found, though, there’s no incentive for the Wizards not to pull the trigger.

Evans, obviously, has contributed little, and even Mason is playing just 8.4 minutes a night. With their roles only likely to shrink as youngsters like Jordan Crawford and Shelvin Mack improve, the Wizards have nothing to lose by shipping them out.

Even if they can add cap room, attracting free agents to join this floundering team won’t be an easy sell. Still, having more money available can’t hurt the Wizards, and having Evans or Mason available will be of little help.