NBA: Mike Bibby Buyout Brings Cap Room for Washington Wizards' Future Foundation

Just days after bringing Mike Bibby to Washington with a trade deadline move, the Wizards agreed to buy out his contract and allow Bibby to sign with whomever he pleases. Bibby gives up more than $6 million in salary for next season, while the Wizards gain much-needed cap room to build for the future.

Recent reports have Bibby interested in signing with the Miami Heat, which comes as no surprise given Washington's status as a non-contender in this season or the next.

The Wizards may not be the hottest ticket in the NBA, but their potentially bright future is hard to ignore. They have point guard John Wall as the future of the franchise, and plenty of young talent to develop over the coming years. However, it is hardly a stretch to wonder if the second piece to the puzzle has yet to don a Wizards jersey yet.

This move goes beyond parting with a veteran who doesn't fit the team plan; this is a clear sign the Wizards aren't prepared to compete with the NBA's elite—as if their 15-43 record wasn't sign enough of their distance from being a championship team.

If the Wizards were to pass on the qualifying offers for Nick Young and Yi Jianlian, as well as decline Al Thornton's option, they would have roughly $18 million in cap space after this season. More than likely, they'll re-sign Young, given his current level of production as the sole starter at shooting guard. Andray Blatche has a long-term contract, but doesn't instill much confidence with his questionable fire and rim-to-rim dedication.

There are too many doubts to assume the Wizards will come out of this season with any more answers than they entered with. Wall is just one player, and it is impossible to tell which current players are in the plans for the rebuilding franchise.

For now, this move will be written off as another cap move for Washington, and a veteran seeking greener pastures elsewhere. The Wizards didn't have much use for Bibby and are not in title contention, which is a necessity for a veteran like him.

Bibby appeared in just two games for Washington, playing 29 minutes and shooting 1-for-9 with three rebounds and eight assists.

Here's hoping the draft pick acquired in the original deal helps the Wizards on their quest to rebuild.