The Washington Wizards have been stuck in a difficult spot as a franchise for several years. Seemingly caught in NBA purgatory where the team is not good enough to truly compete but not bad enough to land a top pick, the Wizards must be very careful how they navigate the situation. Washington has not made it past the opening round of the playoffs since the 2016-17 season. They also have not had a winning record since the 2017-18 season.

While most of the offseason has been dominated by what is set to happen with Bradley Beal, the franchise must focus on other players as well. They recently selected Johnny Davis in the draft who will provide a solid two-way impact. It was a pleasant surprise to see him on the board with the 10th pick as he is a promising NBA-ready rookie. Their attention will now be turned to free agency as they look to continue to elevate the roster. Here are three guys the Wizards should look to add in order to grow into the contender they aspire to be.

3 players Wizards must sign in 2022 NBA free agency

3)Mo Bamba

The Magic are loaded with young talent and it seems Mo Bamba is likely to shake free. He is coming off his most impressive season and is still only 24 years old. Bamba averaged 10.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game this season which were all career-highs for the Texas product. He also shot a career-best 38.1% on three-point attempts while launching four long-range shots per game. The addition of a perimeter shot raises the ceiling of his game a great deal.

While the offense is a nice bonus, his defensive ability is what should draw the Wizards to the big man. Mo Bamba has a monstrous 7’1” frame and 7’10” wingspan. He uses his frame to alter shots around the basket and make an impact on this side of the ball. Washington ranked 25th in the NBA in defensive efficiency and 19th in opponent's points per game. Adding a defensive anchor with plenty of upside hold a great deal of appeal for the Wizards. Bamba would be a terrific addition to the Wizards due to his ability to make a high impact on fairly low usage.

2)Bobby Portis

While talent is certainly a major issue, it feels as if there is a need for some sort of culture change in Washington, Adding Bobby Portis would be a major help in this area. The Milwaukee Bucks fan-favorite makes his presence felt on a nightly basis with his passion and effort level. This type of energy is infectious and could go a long way toward changing the locker room outlook. He has played a vital role in the Bucks' playoff success and can replicate this in Washington.

His passion and energy should not distract from the on-court impact of Bobby Portis. The NBA Champion is coming off his most impactful season as a pro where he averaged 14.6 points and 9.1 rebounds. While there are quite a few forwards on the Wizards’ roster already, Portis would have no problem playing alongside these names. The 27-year-old would be an interesting complement alongside Kyle Kuzma or Kristaps Porzingis. Bobby Portis is just entering his prime and would be a terrific addition as the team tries to give a legitimate run at competing.

1)Bradley Beal

It may seem redundant but Bradley Beal should absolutely be the biggest focus of the offseason. The Wizards' focus as a franchise is drastically changed if the 29-year-old takes his talents elsewhere. The signs seem to be pointing toward Bradley Beal returning, however, it will be a sigh of relief once the ink is finally dried on the contract. The 29-year-old has been faithful to the franchise during his 10 seasons in Washington. He has had chances to force out already and remained loyal which is encouraging. Washington has done their best to please the superstar during his tenure, but his patience is clearly wearing thin.

Money is not the issue in the equation as the Wizards are sure to offer Beal the max. However, so much of the direction of the franchise will be steered by what his ultimate decision is. If Beal does not elect to resign with the Wizards it would make sense for the franchise to fully rebuild. There is no way to replace the 22.1 career points per game he averages as the focal point of the team. As long as Beal remains a member of the team the focus should be kept on competing. The perception that he is coming back is positive but the lack of public commitment is a little unnerving.