Kristaps Porzingis, Wizards in talks over contract extension

Kristaps Porzingis and the Washington Wizards have been locked in serious negotiations over a new deal that would see him opt out of his $36 million player option for the 2023-24 NBA season and sign a new long-term deal. 

The Wizards are in the position to offer Porzingis a maximum of four years and $180 million if he agrees to opt out of his final year and sign the extension. 

There is a deadline for him to make that decision and it is June 27. 

The Wizards have had a strange season. Dealing with several injuries and inconsistent performances from players like Bradley Beal, Kyle Kuzma, and Even Porzingis.

However, they are 34-42 and 11th in the Eastern Conference, with a chance of making the play-in extremely slim. 

As the close season approaches, it is clear they have decisions to make regarding the futures of some of their star players, moving forward. 

Porzingis has enjoyed something of a renaissance this season, averaging 23.2 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.5 blocks over 65 appearances. 

The fact that he has been fit and healthy enough to play 65 games out of a possible 76, while contributing immensely every night is a strong reason why the Wizards have chosen to discuss new terms.

It remains to be seen whether signing a new long term extension with someone who has been injury prone in the past is a worthy investment for a team looking to climb to the top.