NBA Rumors: Marcin Gortat is Washington Wizards’ priority

Although they lost to the Indiana Pacers in six games, the Washington Wizards had a fantastic season, returning to the playoffs and disposing of the Chicago Bulls in five games during the first round.

Now, they have two key free agents, center Marcin Gortat and forward Trevor Ariza. They want to keep both, but they may not be financially possible.

According to Marc Stein of ESPN.com, Gortat is the priority.

"The Polish Hammer is undoubtedly the priority.The Wiz, remember, surrendered a first-round pick to Phoenix mere days before the start of the season to acquire Gortat from the Suns in what was seen a desperate move by a playoff-starved franchise.But Gortat justified Washington’s faith with the way he partnered with Nene on the front line and is sure to generate plenty of interest in free agency entering a summer with no shortage of cap-space teams. The Wiz know it, expect it and still give off the vibe that they won’t allow Gortat to be pilfered.It’s a vow, though, that they can’t make as readily when it comes to Ariza."

Gortat averaged 13.2 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game.