Is Bradley Beal The Right Guy To Lead The Wizards?

Is Bradley Beal The Leader The Washington Wizards Truly Need?

When you think of a leader or anyone in a leadership role, often times you would think of a manager or some sort of executive position. Leaders can sometimes be the ones who make the important decisions and have to do things most people don’t want to do. Leaders do things that need and have to be done. Over these last few years, the leader on the court has been John Wall in Washington. He has been the guy that the team trusted to put the ball in his hands and do what needs to be done. Unfortunately, injuries has gotten the best of him and the Wizards have turned to Bradley Beal to be their leader.

The Passing Of The Baton - USA Today

There’s no question Bradley Beal has had a magnificent career. It started off in his rookie year where he made the NBA All Rookie First Team. He then went on to make the NBA Allstar Team in 2018, 2019, and 2021 as well as the All NBA Third Team in 2021. Bradley Beal shot a career high from the field this season at 50.6%.

“I’m definitely frustrated”

- Bradley Beal pic.twitter.com/W1Ww9bmblw

— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 10, 2023

Despite personal success, you have to wonder is Bradley Beal the right guy to lead this team? Generally speaking, most teams and companies follow the example that is set by their leader. Here are three reasons why Bradley Beal’s time should end as the leader of this franchise.

1. Health

This is beginning to feel a lot like the John Wall situation. Injuries have really got in the way of Bradley Beal. He hasn’t played 70+ games since 2018. The best ability is availability.

2. Defensive Liability 

This Wizards team has had their fair share of struggles defensively this season, particularly on the perimeter. Bradley Beal isn’t a world class defender and certainly hasn’t been able to lead by example there.

3. Does He Want To Be In Washington?

This question has already been asked numerous times and still continues to be asked even after he signed a contract extension to retire as a Wizard. One can only do so much for a team. Frustrations grow when one is carrying the load and not getting the necessary support to be successful. Brad needs help and he is only getting older. It truly gets harder to lead the older you get.