Report: Wizards starting Marcin Gortat at center, even after signing Ian Mahinmi

The Wizards’ big outside signing of the offseason: Ian Mahinmi, who got $64 million over four years.

What does that mean for incumbent starting center Marcin Gortat?

J. Michael of CSN Mid-Atlantic:

Marcin Gortat is the starting center. Multiple league sources, as late as Friday night, told CSNmidatlantic.om that it’s not in the cards to make a move with the 6-11 center because of Ian Mahinmi’s signing (four years, $64 million). Of course, it’s never safe to say never but as for now that appears to be the case.

The Wizards built their roster to chase Kevin Durant, a small forward. When he rejected them, it created complications.

Mahinmi is solid value, and he might have been the best player who’d sign with Washington. But the Wizards didn’t exactly need another starting-caliber center, especially if they’re not trading Gortat. It was an awkward fit last season between Gortat and Nene. Now, Mahinmi slides into the role of Nene, who signed with the Rockets (though without the baggage).

Both Gortat and Mahinmi are ill-suited to play forward, a position handled by Markieff Morris and Andrew Nicholson anyway. Except occasional matchups, Gortat and Mahinmi will probably have to split 48 minutes at center.

That’s not the greatest use of resources, and Gortat is under contract three more years -- which is why, despite this report of Washington’s intentions right now, a trade seems quite possible down the line.