Wizards need frontcourt help

Then again, they need a backup point guard. So they’ll take, perhaps, a Javaris Crittenton.

But there’s also that hole at shooting guard. Enter Nick Young, Rodney Stuckey or Rudy Fernandez.

On the other hand, they want — and need — to win now. Here comes a trade for a veteran.

Get the picture?

The Wizards have a number of directions they can go tonight with the 16th overall pick in the NBA Draft. And in each case they could fill a hole. But in each case they’ll likely have to wait a year — or two — for those holes to be filled as the player develops.

Then again, Washington could swap this pick, perhaps paired with some veterans (Antonio Daniels and Etan Thomas) for a player who could help now. After all, they already have enough still-developing young guys in Oleksiy Pecherov and Andray Blatche.

Don’t forget: Three years ago, Ernie Grunfeld traded the fifth overall pick to Dallas in a package that yielded Antawn Jamison.

“You never know what direction you’ll go ahead of time,” Grunfeld said. “Other people determine what we’re able to do. We’re prepared for all the scenarios.”

Thaddeus Young • SF • Georgia Tech

» Height: 6-8

» Weight: 210

» Pros: He might have been a lottery pick coming out of high school and he has lots of potential. Young has worked on his weaknesses (mainly ball handling) since his freshman season ended at Georgia Tech. Young looks the part, with long arms and an excellent frame. He’s best suited as a small forward.

» Cons: Young has a long ways to go to become a complete player. It does not appear as if he’s ready to break down NBA defenders, thanks to poor ballhandling skills. He also shied away from posting up in college, despite a size advantage. He’ll need a more varied game. His defense was highly suspect.

Nick Young • SG • Southern California

» Height: 6-6

» Weight: 206

» Pros: Young carried USC into the NCAA Tournament, showing a variety of offensive skills that should translate well to the NBA, where he would be less of a focal point. Young has become a more consistent shooter over the years. He’s known for his variety of moves and explosive leaping ability.

» Cons: He’ll likely be gone by the time Washington selects, meaning they could opt for someone such as Spain’s Rudy Fernandez, Georgia Tech’s Javaris Crittenton or Eastern Washington’s Rodney Stuckey. Young also needs to bulk up. He also tends to force things at times and does not do a good job passing the ball.

Julian Wright • SF • Kansas

» Height: 6-9

» Weight: 211

» Pros: Wright can play either small or power forward, giving them protection if Antawn Jamison leaves after next year (or even this summer via trade). He’s considered to be a smart player with a good footwork and a solid mid-range game. When he’s on, his defensive energy is excellent. He’s a good offensive rebounder and excellent passer.

» Cons: Wright has been projected as a possible lottery pick by some, so he might not be available when the Wizards select. He also had moments this past season where he disappeared during games (see, NCAA Tourney vs. UCLA). Was that a result of being a sophomore, or was that an indicator of who he is?

Jason Smith • PF • Colorado state

» Height: 7-0

» Weight: 233

» Pros: Smith is one of the more intriguing players in the draft because of his size and offensive game. He’s a good ball handler with a consistent outside shot, and developing mid-range game. Smith runs the court well for a big man and is quick. It’s easy to see why scouts like the Colorado State product’s potential.

» Cons: The Wizards already have a player in Oleksiy Pecherov who can give them what Smith offers. And Andray Blatche offers similar qualities. So why would they take another player with the same skills? Unless, of course, they fear losing Blatche. Scouts are mixed on Smith’s potential on defense and rebounding, two areas where the Wizards need help.