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The Washington Wizards are going into the 2020-21 season with much higher expectations in Tommy Sheppard's second year as the general manager. Ahead of the November 18 NBA Draft, November 20 moratorium, and November 22 free agency start, Sheppard joined Zach Lowe on his podcast. No word if Bradley Beal is still upset with the ESPN journalist,
On not trading Bradley Beal
“We’re building this team around Bradley Beal. He’s a tremendous human being, he’s a tremendous player, he’s exactly what we want to have here with the Washington Wizards.”
On Davis Bertans
“We ended the season saying that was our priority and nothing has changed. Davis fits our team perfectly, I think we fit him perfectly. The opportunity he had to play with Bradley Beal unlocked his game and he showed the whole league he’s one of the best shooters. Now you add John Wall who’s over 10 dimes a game. I think it’s going to be hard to guard. Somebody’s going to be open on the court and that makes it exciting for Davis.”
On expectations
“With that backcourt, if it gels and were able to get out there and stay healthy all year. Certainly getting back to the playoffs is a goal, that’s not the be-all end-all. Our goal is to continue to get better, add pieces, and give us a chance to be perennially successful. If we just say all in, let's go, make or break playoffs this year, that would really hinder our future and that’s what we’re trying to show Bradley, you’re going to have a chance to come win here every year, get to the playoffs every year, and extend your playoff experience every year.”