The Washington Wizards took a big step back this year after reaching the playoffs in four of the past five seasons, and one longtime front office executive has lost his job because of it.
On Tuesday, the Wizards announced that they have fired president of basketball operations Ernie Grunfeld. Owner Ted Leonsis acknowledged that injuries have played a role in the Wizards only winning 32 games to this point, but he said the organization needs to hold people accountable.
Statement from owner Ted Leonsis: “We did not meet our stated goals of qualifying for the playoffs this season and, despite playing with injuries to several key players, we have a culture of accountability and a responsibility of managing to positive outcomes.” https://t.co/bPFoqTINTH
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) April 2, 2019
Grunfeld was hired by the Wizards in 2003, and the team has not advanced beyond the Eastern Conference semis during his tenure. There was talk a few years ago that he could be on the hot seat with John Wall lashing out at team officials, but he managed to stay on board for a few more years.
ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports that their GM/president job will be an attractive one to potential candidates.
Wizards ownership has been active in pursuing search firms to help with process for a new GM, sources tell ESPN. Wizards are an attractive job for potential candidates, largely because of resources and geography. https://t.co/yJDtSkxgMW
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 2, 2019
It will be interesting to see how the Wizards handle their offseason, as there has been some talk that they could look to rebuild by trading star guard Bradley Beal. Wall is already slated to miss the majority of next season after he tore his Achilles this year, so the new GM will have plenty of work to do.
