"The Washington Wizards media day brought plenty of talk about the season ahead. Between the comments from new additions, offseason updates from returning players and what to expect for the season ahead from head coach Brian Keefe, there was an abundance of eye opening comments made on Monday, However, one of the biggest takeaways of all may be from the team's new veteran presence in the backourt, CJ McCollum."
"McCollum landed in Washington after the New Orleans Pelicans made the effort to get younger ahead of the looming season. The Wizards decision to send Jordan Poole to New Orleans not only allowed them to be freed from the inconsistent guard's long-term contract, but they were able to land a savvy vet on an expiring deal, which is exacty what general manager Will Dawkins was looking to accomplish."
"Through it all, it was unclear whether a 34-year-old veteran like McCollum would be willing to take on the role as a veteran leader on a rebuilding roster. Obviously, the Lehigh product is the ultimate professional and whether he wanted to or not, he wouldn't make a scene about the situation he found himself in. Fortunately, McCollum made it clear that not only is he willing to take on that role, but he's looking forward to doing so."
Washington acquired veteran guard CJ McCollum as part of a roster shakeup that included trading Jordan Poole to New Orleans and moving on from Malcolm Brogdon. The trade freed the team from Poole's inconsistent long-term contract and allowed the front office to secure a savvy veteran on an expiring deal targeted by general manager Will Dawkins. The franchise also navigated Marcus Smart's buyout and added rookie scoring guard Tre Johnson. McCollum, at 34, expressed willingness to serve as a mentor, emphasizing learning, growth, and teaching younger players how to work and prepare.
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