Wizards Buyout 11-Year Veteran, Becomes Free Agent

With his usage, minutes and points slashed this season to a fraction of what he's used to, Washinton Wizards' 11-year veteran wing Will Barton asked for a change of scenery last week. A trade wasn't forthcoming, so he'll now get a buyout and become a free agent.

ESPN Sources: The Wizards are working on a contract buyout for veteran G/F Will Barton, allowing him to become a free agent. Barton, 32, has had a limited role with Washington this season, but started 71 games and averaged 14.7 points for the Nuggets a season ago.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 9, 2023

The 32-year-old had been a starter for the Denver Nuggets the previous four seasons, and had averaged 14 points and 5.0 rebounds with 36% shooting from 3-point range over his eight years in the Mile High City. 

But with the Wizards, he had a limited role, and was averaging 7.7 points and 2.8 rebounds in 19 minutes per game. He was, however, still filling it up from distance, hitting threes at a 38% rate. 

A week ago, at least two teams were said to be interested in Barton if he's bought out, including the Milwaukee Bucks and the Brooklyn Nets. No telling if that still holds after all the trade deadline moves on Thursday, but certainly, Barton could certainly help some teams with scoring off the bench and some floor spacing. 

Photo: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports