The Washington Wizards
With Steve Wyche
Washington Post Sports Reporter
Friday, April 20, 2001; Noon EDT

Less then 24 hours after Leonard Hamilton resigned as head coach of the Washington Wizards, former Bulls coach Doug Collins has stepped in to fill the vacancy. The change has only fueled speculation surrounding a possible comeback for Michael Jordan, the current President of Operations for the Wizards.

Washington Post sports reporter Steve Wyche was online to take questions and comments on the new coach, rumors surrounding Michael Jordan and the Wizards in general.

The transcript follows.

Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.

Arlington, Va.: Wasn't MJ instrumental in getting Doug Collins fired in Chicago? And if Doug Collins couldn't get the job done in Detroit with Grant Hill, why should anyone think it will be different in Washington?

Steve Wyche: As the years have passed, the reports of Mj getting Collins fired in Chicago proved to be more rumor than fact. I don't think Collins would be coaching here if that happened. He may not have even taken MJ's phone call. The interesting this is, now he's in a position where MJ has total control of firing him. Collins has been known to wear players down because he is so tough and demanding. MJ must have felt that is what this team needed. The Wizards had a lot of disciplinary problems last season that probably won't happen under Collins. Also, there is no superstar on the Wizards roster like in Chicago and Detroit, so there may not be THE player authority with the credentials to challenge Collins.

Bethesda, Md.: All due respect, but why are the Bullets/Wizards getting so much coverage? New coach, same team -- they'll stink.

There's only one team in the Washington D.C. area that's been to the playoffs in the past year, and that's the Caps. You've got a great storyline that sounds like something out of Disney -- hard working, no name guys take on big name, flashy guys and win -- and you've got a local angle with Halpern.

But instead, we get more stuff about the most consistently underachieving team in the Washington area.

Why?

Steve Wyche: I wish I was the right person to answer that question but I don't make those decisions. I cover the Wizards/NBA and try to do my job to the best of my ability.

Fairfield, N.J.: Collins has improved his teams by riding one young superstar to the max (Michael Jordan in Chicago, Grant Hill in Detroit). Who is likely to inherit that role in D.C.? Rip Hamilton? A lottery pick? Michael?

Steve Wyche: He doesn't have that here. While Rip Hamilton is a rising star anda Courtney Alexander has incredible potential, neither is the horse that MJ or Grant Hill was. That is why his job here will be tougher. If MJ comes back, though...

Arlington, Va.: Well, I guess the obvious question is does this mean Michael's coming back? Some local commentators are saying absolutely. How does it look from your vantage point? Thanks.

Steve Wyche: I think he's leaving open a window of opportunity. It's way too soon to know now. He's getting in shape and over the summer he has to think about playing 82 games for a team that isn't very good for a coach who is VERY demanding in a league that has a lot of nice young players. I don't know if he's coming back but hopefully by October or so I'll be able to let you know

Reston, Va.: Steve:
Given that the two most (offensively) talented Wizards play shooting guard, what do you think Collins will do with that position? Is it still likely that Alexander will play out of position, or is one trade bait? Can they co-exist at the 2-spot? Also, in your opinion, is Profit (or Whitney) an NBA-caliber starting point guard?
Thanks.

Steve Wyche: To answer you second question first, I think Chris Whitney showed he is a capable starter. He may not be Stephon Marbury but he can control the flow of a game and he is one of the smartest players in the league. Profit is still young and has a way to go. As far as Hamilton and Alexander, both are incredibly talented and both can play both guard spots. I think training camp will be a battle and one of them will have to take a seat behind the other. I can see them playing together, probably with Alexander at the small forward, but that might not work over an entire season.

Annapolis, Md.: Hey Steve,
MJ question (of course)
MJ's return would probably be good for the NBA, but don't you think it would be detrimental to the Wizards themselves? The only place the Wizards have any real talent right now is at the 2-3 spot, with the "Alexander Hamilton" combo. Jordan's return pretty much puts them on the back burner, doesn't it? And as Wilbon wrote, it's tough to have long term success without high lottery picks. Jordan won't win the championship with the Wizards, but he probably could put them in the 35-45 win department, which would give them a 10-20 draft pick, not exactly great for future building, considering Jordan is not a long-term solution. Do you think Jordan has considered these factors, or is he in it for himself?

Steve Wyche: I think that will weigh heavily into his decision. You're right about the short-term effect. Washington would be better. But what happens when Jordan retires for good, which could be after a year. Hamilton and Alexander would have lost some development time since they play the same position as MJ and are both offensive players who need touches. If Jordan could lure some big time free agents while he's a player that could soften the blow but I don't know if his return would be a good long term solution.

Fairfax, Va.: Does NBA salary cap only apply to players' salaries, or does it also include the coach's salary or former coach's buyout/severance agreement?

When will the Wizards be in the situation Orlando was in this year regarding salary cap room? You'd think trading Juwan alone would put them $20 million under the cap starting this next year.

Also, do you think the Wizards will sign Christian Laettner and if so, how much could he potentially make?

Thanks.

Steve Wyche: The salary cap only counts player salaries, and some of those salaries could be from players who were cut while they were still under contract, which is the case with Loreno Williams, who was cut with three years left on his deal before the season. His salary of just more than $3 million will count on Washington's cap for the next two years (The term of his contract). The Wizards will be anywhere from $10-$20 million under the cap in the summer of 2002. Trading Juwan helped get them to that point but losing the contracts of several other players also contributes. As far as Laettner, the Wizards may bring him back on a one or two year deal, most likely a one-year deal. If he would agree toa one-year deal, he could probably earn roughly $7 million, which likely would be more than he will get offered elsewhere. If he won't agree to a one or two year deal, the Wizards probably will let him go.

Washington, D.C.: Hi, Steve,

I have been a Washington Bullet/Wizard fan for years. I feel that we the fans have been ripped off by the Washington organization and the product that they put on the basketball court. Do you think we have a class action lawsuit?

Steve Wyche: I'm not a lawyer. I suggest you call yours on that one.

Arlington, Va.: I think you brought up an interesting point that very few national media are discussing. Collins' intensity is being viewed as a negative attribute, but those who watch the Wiz regularly realize that they lack competitive intensity on a regular basis. I would think that Collins would be a great shot in the arm in that regard, especially considering his level of basketball knowledge and experience.

Steve Wyche: His intensity has proven beneficial in the short term. He turned around two struggling teams quickly, although he doesn't have the talent or draft picks here that he did and those stops.

Minneapolis, Minn.: Steve,

Do you think MJ contacted Doug before the season was over about the job? Did he know Hamilton would "resign"?

Steve Wyche: Jordan said he contacted Collins nearly two weeks ago when he and Leonard Hamilton had a discussion in which Hamilton expressed some concerns about his ability to succeed.

Springfield, Va.: It seems like MJ has done a pretty good job of bankrupting the team of all it's talent with the trades of the last. What difference is it going to make if we have a new coach with no talent? The Wiz actually played better before the trades, so (yawn) what's the point of a new coach if he has no talent?

Steve Wyche: As Doug Collins said yesterday, you have to build a foundation to get talented players to come here and hiring a coach that has been successful is a start. Jordan did trade, waive and will buyout the nucleus of talent that was here but that talent didn't get the team anywhere near the playoffs so he's doing the right thing. You can't rebuild until you tear the house down.

Harrison, N.J.: Steve- great to see you online, I actually wrote in about a month ago and requested that you be part of Live Onine because of your in-depth Wizards knowledge, thanks for doing this.

Question: Hamiliton and Alexander have shown potential and talent. It'll be tough to see either leave, but considering they play the same position and the many needs of this team, what kind of trade value could each possibly have? Is a Mike Bibby or Lamar Odom out of the question? Also, will Etan Thomas be able to contribute off the bench next season?

Steve Wyche: Etan Thomas may be contributing as a starter next season. Both of Washington's power forwards -- Michael Smith and Christian Laettner -- might not be here. It Washington were to move Hamilton or Alexander, a Mike Bibby type player is within reach and frankly, I don't think they would trade either one for anything less than that caliber of player.

Fairfax: Was Leonard Hamilton pushed? The Collins thing happened fairly (understatement)quickly --- how long was it in the works?

Steve Wyche: Jordan said his talks with Collins started two weeks ago. Apparently Hamilton had some reservations about some things but since he did not tell his assistant coaches about his intentions, or his players, I think his resignation was expedited.

Bowie, Md.: Steve:

They have made Leonard Hamilton a scapegoat for an poorly run organization. Is Doug Collins a glutton for punishment or an idiot?
Stevie, Would you take that job?

Steve Wyche: Doug Collins would not have taken this job if he didn't think he could make this better. As for me, I like the gig I have.

Harrison, N.J.: How do players around the league view the Wizards in terms of free agency.? It might not be L.A. or N.Y., but is Jordan creating any kind of buzz?

Also, do you know if at any time, Kobe Bryant called Jordan requesting the Wizards put together a trade for him?

Steve Wyche: Players around the league don't view Washington as the ideal destination but most don't view any long-time loser as a place they want to play. Jordan has made things a little more attractive but most players don't really care about coming to a team because of its front-office.

Washington, D.C.: With the new NBA rules placing a premium on outside shooting, does the trade value of any Wizards' players increase? I am thinking particularly of Hubert Davis, our third shooting guard (or fourth if Jordan comes back).

Steve Wyche: Because of Hubert's shooting ability, I don't think you'll be seeing him in another uniform next season. He is a needed asset for Washington. Plus, his uncle Walter is a scout for the team.

Fairfax: You are exactly right about Jordan's return being detrimental to Rip Hamilton & Courtney Alexander. But, what the team needs is REAL leadership on the floor. They need an old school veteran who is willing to teach the youngbloods and instill the desire to win. I am just praying that the Wizards DON'T attempt to woo Vince Carter -- we don't need his attitude.

Steve Wyche: Vince Carter has a pretty good attitude from my conversations with him. His teammates like him and he is one heck of a player. If he has an attitude, I think most coaches and players could deal with it. The Wizards would not be hurt by a leader but this team needs to acquire talent more than anything.

Burke, Va.: How do you feel about the fact that MJ was a superstar athlete but so far has shown little ability to motivate his team? As a matter of fact he has done a lot to destroy the team by trading away the entire team and firing the coach! Now we have absolutely nothing and, we speculate about his comeback. What could a middle age athlete do against younger and quicker players?

Steve Wyche: It's hard to motivate players who don't want to be motivated. It's hard to push a car when it's in park. That is why Jordan is getting those types of players out and trying to bring in some players who actually realize that they are fortunate to play basketball for a living. As far as older athletes competing against younger players, I think that depends on the athlete. I think Karl Malone and John Stockton are doing just fine. Steve Young and Warren Moon played late into their careers.

Alexandria, Va.: Any chance Laettner could be signed and traded to another team for picks or young players? I know the Lakers were interested in him last summer.

Steve Wyche: I definitely think there is a chance but it depends on how badly another team wants him.

Cairo, Egypt: Who do you think the Wizards are best suited to draft in terms of their needs and who do you think they could land in free agency?

Steve Wyche: The Wizards are in need everywhere except for shooting guard. If Duke point guard Jason Williams stays in school like he says and Yao Ming remains in China, which appears will be the case for another year, I would expect them to either try and get an athletic small forward, like maybe Eddie Griffin from Seton Hall, or trade down 2 or three picks, to try and get a young player and still be in position to get a Griffin, Shane Battier or the best point guard available.

St. Paul, Minn.: Steve,

I'm a big fan of your work. One question: Do you feel MJ took advice from anyone on the idea of Collins as coach (i.e. Phil Jackson, Barkley)?

Steve Wyche: I think he consulted with some members of his staff, like Wes Unseld and Rod Higgins but I think it was mostly his call. He has a great amount of respect for Collins, who was on his radar before last season.

Frederick, Md.: If Jordan Returns, who is best likely to be in the supporting cast with him? Obviously he cannot do it alone.

Steve Wyche: To hear Charles Barkley tell it, Barkley, MJ and whomever's left. It's very hard to tell. It will depend on who they draft, who they can get to come here via free agency.

Harrison, N.J.: Is Mike Smith going to be able to contribute and play consistent minutes in the NBA sometime down the road?

Steve Wyche: I assume you are talking about the rookie Mike Smith. He has potential. He needs to be more assertive and work on his ball handling. But he can play.

Burke, Va.: While Jordan did dispose of his talent. These players have proven they are truly talented elsewhere! Look at the year Weber had! Howard seems to have really turned his year around also! Could it be possible the emperor has no clothes? Isn't it a reality that Jordan hasn't been able to motivate the players and as a matter of fact has done everything possible to destroy a team with excellent talent just like Angelos did with the Orioles. We'll pay for this folly for years to come, what a shame MJ can't motivate and coach 1/10 as good as he once played.

Steve Wyche: Jordan did not trade Chris Webber and Juwan Howard was having a good year here before he went to Dallas. As far as ridding the team of other players, last I checked, those players won 18 games and 29 games for Washington the past two years and about 13 games this season before the big trade.

Leesburg, Va.: What's next? Collins arrives as a longtime model of athletics excellence, discipline, passion, confidence, commitment, character and integrity. While Michael Jordan will be only a phone call away (as usual)-- teaching, coaching and leading in the Collins' method will not suffice. You cannot produce a winning team, without building a winning organization, period. Doug Collins will depart sooner than later, either from frustration or burnout. This is a no-win circumstance for one outstanding sportsman!!!

Steve Wyche: Collins took the job knowing the challenge that lies ahead. I agree that the Wizards need to upgrade everything from top to bottom. It doesn't happen overnight, though.

Annapolis, Md.: Who do you think the Wizards will draft this year, assuming they have a top 3 pick? Seems logical that they'd go big, but most of the big guys in this draft are so young.

Steve Wyche: It's a toss up. If Jason Williams stays in school, Washington might trade down a few places, get a young player and a pick a few spots down. I think Eddie Griffin, Jamal Tinsley, Rodney White and Shane Battier are definite possibilities, though.

Rheinbach, Germany: Is that true that Michael Jordan play in the next year for the Wizards?

Steve Wyche: He has not made that decision yet and as of now he will not play. However, he has about 5 months to think about changing his mind.

Reston, Va.: The biggest problem of the Wizards organization for the past 20 years is its lack of vision, foresight and organization. The hope when MJ came on board was that he, coming from what appeared to be a first class organization, would change that. Has he? I know he has beefed up scouting, etc., but more employees could just mean more chaos. I thought that by cutting salaries and grooming young players the Wiz were trying to build something. But the MJ talk suggests the Wiz, ONCE AGAIN, are going for the quick mediocre fix. Any chance that Abe would say to MJ, "Come back and play, but do so in the context of what we're trying to do here, namely growing with our young players"?

Steve Wyche: Since MJ was hired he has said this is going to be a long process. The first thing he had to do was get rid of the high salaried players so they could create room to get under the salary cap. Next, they had to establish who they wanted to keep for the long term and I think Rip Hamilton and Courtney Alexander are players that fit the bill. From here, Jordan's drafting and ability to lure free agents will be where he will be judged. The franchise traded away a lot of quality players and draft picks before he got here and I think, as you said happened before, instead of plugging holes, he has decided to build a new boat.

Arlington, Va.: Now what for Leonard Hamilton? His story sure is sad: building a strong program at Miami, getting a dream NBA job and realizing (or being told?) after a year that he doesn't belong there.

Steve Wyche: He knew the what he was giving up and the task that lied ahead when he took the job. He is a great man, who, at least to some degree, had some reservations about how fast he would be able to turn the team around. He is still respected as a good college coach and won't have a problem finding a job. I would expect him to take a year off then get back into college coaching.

Harrison, NJ: We've heard the Wizards like Jason Williams, but are they high on Yao Ming, regardless of his draft status? Would they consider taking him if he's available, or would they rather trade down?

Steve Wyche: If Yao Ming is available, which does not appear will be the case, they would take him. They won't waste their draft pick on him just to secure his rights, though. He could get seriously hurt before he is allowed to play in the NBA -- or he might not even be allowed to come to the NBA -- and the Wizards would be out of luck.

Washington, D.C.: I think Micheal and Charles will join the Wizards which will entice Chris Webber to rejoin his old team and city that he loves. And the year after that get Vince Carter via free agency. And then maybe Jordan retires again to run the team, what a genius, huh Steve?

Steve Wyche: You should apply to be GM. Thing is, the Wizards won't have more than $4.1 million to pay Webb this summer. I think he'll be getting a few more enticing offers. He can play with MJ and Chuck in a few pickup games in the city he loves to get his fix.

Fairfax, Va.: With the Wizards track record for head coaches over the last seven years, what are the odds that Doug Collins will be here for three years?

Is the head coach of Washington the least desirable position in the NBA?

Steve Wyche: It must not be that undesirable if people keep taking it. I wish I could help you on those odds but I can't even tell you where I'll be in three years, let alone Doug Collins.

Annapolis, Md.: Forgetting for a second the impact Jordan's return would have on the existing players on the team, don't you think it would have a detrimental impact on his progression as an executive? Unlike some people, I think that MJ, by and large, has done a terrific job thus far. The two firings (Heard and Hamilton) were regrettable, but the Howard deal was a steal, considering most would've been happy if he got a bag of balls for Howard, and he got at least one (Alexander) and maybe two (Eton Thomas) future starters out of the deal. Getting Strickland to leave so painlessly was money also. How much, if at all, do you think Jordan's return will stifle his growth as an executive.

Steve Wyche: That all depends. I think he would still be in daily contact with the front office and he has learned the collective bargaining agreement. It would take him away from the conference rooms but he would get a better look at some of the talent he would be trying to acquire.

Bethesda, Md.: Hi Steve! Do you think that Leonard Hamilton actually walked away from $6 million guaranteed, considering that he had to buy out his contract in Miami for a million. I have a hard time believing that an agent would allow that kind of move without some kind of compensation. Have you heard of a financial settlement for Hamilton. I believe he was fired but cannot understand why he would say he resignred on his own after being"summoned " to MJ's office. After all Mike recruited him, gave him a bad team, got rid of what little talent he had, what was to be expected? Do we really believe that Collins, or Jackson, or even Riley could have done any better under the same circumstances?

Steve Wyche: I think there was some type of settlement. Hamilton not only left a good situation in Miami, but he moved his family from a place it loved dearly. I don't think he would have walked away empty handed after some of the personal consessions he made to take the job. Riley or Jackson or Collins might have won a few more games but the Wizards lack of overall talent and discipline and some players lack of respect of the fact they play basketball for a living wouldn't have got them into the playoffs.

New York, N.Y.: What college did you attend (I think I remember an aspiring sportswriter with your name at Howard University a lot of years ago)?

Why isn't your picture featured online like the rest of the Post columnists?

Steve Wyche: I am not a columnist so we don't get our mugs displayed, which may be a good thing.

Carbondale, Ill.: Hi Steve,

Can you list some of the free agents that will be available this summer and whom the Wizards could afford? Do you think Jayson Williams, who is contemplating playing again, would play for the Wizards, as he and Micheal have always had a good relationship.

Thank you,

Diann Gordon

Steve Wyche: I don't know what Jayson's physical condition is. The Wizards might look at him but he is older and would be more of a short-term fix. Some of the more prominent free agents are Dikembe Mutombo, Patrick Ewing, Chris Webber, Alland Houston and Michael Finley. Washington couldn't afford any of them. They might be able to get someone like Maurice Taylor or Shandon Anderson, though.

Steve Wyche: Thanks everybody. It was fun!

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