NBA Free Agency Rumors: Wizards, Otto Porter unable to strike a deal after meeting
The Wizards, however, are expected to match any offer that Porter receives
As was expected, the Washington Wizards' first order of business once midnight struck on July 1, was meeting with their restricted free agent, Otto Porter.
The fourth-year swingman came on strong last season, finally turning into the player the Wizards had expected when they took him with the No. 3 overall pick back in 2013. He averaged 13.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and shot an impressive 43.4 percent from downtown.
He was a vital part of the Wizards' turnaround as they won 49 games and made the second round of the Eastern Conference playoffs, but the downside (for Washington fans) to his improved play is that he suddenly has plenty of suitors willing to give him plenty of money to leave D.C.
Hoping to pre-empt any other offers, the Wizards met with Porter immediately, and hoped to come to an agreement on a long-term deal to keep him in town. The exact figure was not reported, though if not a max deal, it figures to be very close to one.
Wizards would love to find a way to come to a long-term deal with Porter tonight if they can, and avoid dealing with the restricted market. https://t.co/4qeMSNAS43
— Tim Bontemps (@TimBontemps) July 1, 2017
Unfortunately for the Wizards, they were not able to come to any agreement with their young swingman during the initial meeting, and it appears as if Porter will indeed test the market. Washington, though, is reportedly willing to match any offer he receives.
Told Wizards' meeting with Otto Porter is over. Does not appear they reached agreement tonight. WAS has repeatedly vowed to match any offer.
— David Aldridge (@daldridgetnt) July 1, 2017
It's wise for any young player such as Porter to explore the free-agent market, as you never know what kind of offer might be out there. But with the Wizards apparently willing to match any offer sheet he signs, the most likely scenario here is still that Porter returns to nation's capital. Getting a deal done right away just would have saved the Wizards some hassle.
















