CJ McCollum Starts Fresh with Wizards Amidst Contract Concerns

WASHINGTON, D.C. — CJ McCollum‘s arrival with the Washington Wizards represents a fresh start for both the player and the team. McCollum joins the Wizards after spending several challenging seasons with the New Orleans Pelicans, where a split seemed inevitable.

The trade also provided Jordan Poole with the change of scenery he had sought, while the Wizards offloaded Saddiq Bey, who never played a game for Washington. McCollum’s previous experience and leadership were seen as crucial for a team looking to reshape its identity.

At the start of the preseason, it appeared McCollum had found new life in D.C. His strong performances offered hope that he could be more than just a mentor, something the team desperately needed after Malcolm Brogdon‘s lackluster stint last season.

However, those early signs of rejuvenation quickly faded as the regular season began. McCollum has struggled to make an impact, raising concerns about why the Pelicans parted ways with the Lehigh alumnus in the first place. Currently, McCollum is on an expiring contract worth $30.6 million this season, which complicates his situation in Washington.

As a potential free agent this offseason, the Wizards may find themselves unable to move McCollum unless both sides reach an agreement to part ways early. His age and hefty salary weigh heavily on the franchise, especially given their long-term goals.

Despite his declining performance, McCollum’s professionalism and leadership remain assets for the Wizards. He is widely recognized as one of the most dedicated players in the league. Still, his substantial contract, combined with dwindling on-court effectiveness, presents a challenging scenario for a Wizards team that is not currently in a position to contend for a playoff spot.