Randy Wittman is in the final guaranteed season of his contract with the Wizards, and they’re a disappointing 8-10. They’ve often looked even worse than that record. John Wall has publicly (and respectfully) disagreed with Wittman’s strategy, and Marcin Gortat disliked the Wittman’s public criticism.
Does this all add up to a coach on the hot seat?
Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders:
Wittman guided Washington to playoff-series victories each of the last two seasons – its first time advancing in the postseason in consecutive years since 1978 and 1979. He has earned a little leeway to see this through.
But where does he go from here?
Despite playing faster and employing the small-ball tactics Wittman had saved for the playoffs, the Wizards have struggled on both ends of the floor. Wittman has already fired his most-effective bullet. I’m not sure there’s a Wittman-staying solution other than hoping a transformed roster eventually meshes.
Washington might just need a new voice.
Wittman has come a long way as a coach. He probably must improve even further to keep his job.
The Wizards’ patience will determine how long he has to show that progress – whether it’s weeks or the rest of the season. But it’s hard to see them exercising his team option for next year without a breakthrough.