Wizards part ways with GM Tommy Sheppard

For 4 years, Tommy Sheppard was the general manager of the Washington Wizards.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Washington Wizards are shaking up their organization after all — in the front office, at least.

On Wednesday, Tommy Sheppard was dismissed from his position as general manager of The Wizards, following the team’s failure to make the postseason for two straight seasons. This came less than two years after Sheppard’s contract was extended in November 2021. The team recorded a 35-47 score in the 2021-22 season and repeated the same performance this season.

“Failure to make the playoffs the last two seasons was very disappointing to our organization and our fans. A search for new leadership will begin immediately for an executive from outside the organization,” owner Ted Leonsis said in a statement. “I would like to thank Tommy for his dedication to the Wizards organization and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”

Official: Tommy Sheppard relieved of his duties as General Manager and President.https://t.co/ljtLsF9Msx

— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) April 19, 2023

The Wizards secured a max-value contract with star guard Bradley Beal in the previous offseason, yet there was no evident enhancement in the team’s performance. Early the previous week, Sheppard conducted a press conference to conclude the season. After approximately 30 minutes of answering queries, he was questioned if he had formally met with Leonsis to assure his return. The question appeared to catch him off guard.

“Sheppard said, “Myself? I’ve never been a part of a conversation before.”

Sheppard stated that day that the team was hopeful about the return of Kristaps Porzingis and Kyle Kuzma, who both have player options. Although the Wizards were visibly disappointed with the season’s outcome, no significant changes appeared to be on the horizon. However, it now seems likely that a substantial new direction could be undertaken.

Sheppard was with the organization for 20 seasons. His roles included serving as the vice president of basketball operations from 2003 to 2013, and then as the senior vice president of basketball operations from 2013 to 2019.

When Ernie Grunfeld was dismissed towards the end of the 2018-19 season, he stepped in as the interim general manager, eventually shedding the interim status. His time as GM, notably Sheppard’s, was filled with significant events. He orchestrated a trade that exchanged John Wall for Russell Westbrook and subsequently traded Westbrook in a transaction that brought Kuzma to Washington. In another deal, Porzingis was also acquired by the Wizards.

Wes Unseld Jr. was also hired by Washington as its new coach, and he has just completed his second season.

Despite all of this, Washington has, however, been unable to shake off its image as a fringe playoff team at best.

Sheppard did not respond immediately to a message that sought comment.