Why the Wizards made the right hiring with HC Brian Keefe

In January, Keefe took over after the Wizards relieved Wes Unseld, who ultimately joined the team's front office. While wins didn't come, players felt the shift immediately. Guard Jordan Poole told The Athletic that the team played more to its strengths and felt "more connected" with Keefe leading the way.

Despite how the season ended, the team's view of their acting coach remained largely the same. Forward Kyle Kuzma said Keefe had "galvanized" the roster, while Poole remained confident in his ability to lead and help them grow.

“I can really only just really speak on the stuff that B.K. has brought since he’s been here and I think he’s been really good for our young team: the detail-orientedness that he brings, the structure that he brings,” Poole told Josh Robbins of The Athletic. “And he’s willing and very genuine and authentic about putting our team (and) putting guys in positions to be successful and play to their strengths and really unlocking them because he cares about them as individuals."

The Wizards do not have a quick fix coming, but they do own the No. 2 and No. 26 overall picks in this year's NBA Draft. They also have cap flexibility with Poole ($29.6 million) and Kuzma ($23.5) as their highest-paid players.

After years of instability, Keefe staying aboard shows the Wizards might have a plan, which can now include focusing on acquiring assets that fit his philosophy.