Wizards, Corey Kispert Agree To Four-Year Extension

October 21, 2024

The Wizards have signed sharpshooting wing Corey Kispert to a four-year, $54 million contract extension, per NBA insider Marc Stein of The Stein Line.

Washington announced the move (though not all specifics) in a press release as well.

“Corey is someone who positively impacts our environment daily. He consistently shows up for the organization as both a player and a teammate, embodying the passion and professionalism we value,” GM Will Dawkins said in a statement. “We are excited that he has the opportunity to continue his growth and development in Washington. He’s a relentless worker who has added to his game each season. We look forward to his further evolution in the coming years.”

Per Josh Robbins of The Athletic, the final year of the contract consists of a team option.

Kispert, 25, has been a steady contributor since being selected 15th overall in the 2021 draft. He posted career-high numbers last season, averaging 13.4 points per game, while proving his worth as a legitimate threat from deep.

Over the last two NBA seasons, Kispert has connected on more than 40% of his three-point attempts, making him a valuable floor-spacer in a league that craves shooters.

Now, here’s the interesting part: Kispert was drafted by the previous front office, and with the Wizards now under the direction of Michael Winger and Dawkins, it wasn’t a lock that Kispert would be part of their long-term vision. But just like they did with Deni Avdija last fall, Winger and Dawkins are showing they’re willing to keep young talent on board if the price is right — even if that player wasn’t handpicked by them.

Of course, in a rebuild, anything is possible. Kispert could end up as a trade piece at some point, but with his shooting ability and contract, that’s a luxury the Wizards can afford to hold on to for now. Moving him next season would be tricky due to the poison pill provision, but in a league where shooting comes at a premium, Kispert’s value is clear.

All in all, this is a smart move for a rebuilding Wizards team. They secure a key rotation player at a reasonable price — just under what a full mid-level exception is projected to be in 2025.