Gary Neal has signed a one year deal with the Washington Wizards worth 2.1 million dollars. The Wizards used their bi-annual exception on Neal. For those that don’t know, a bi-annual exception is where a team can sign a player worth more than the minimum salary but less than the mid-level exception. A bi-annual exception doesn’t count against the team’s salary.
By not using salary cap money, the Wizards put themselves in better position to get David West by keeping money and upgrading their bench. Gary Neal averaged 10.1 points and 2.4 rebounds-per-game this year in 54 games. He’s a solid player and had a few successful years with the San Antonio Spurs. After those few good years and a couple huge moments in the Finals, he went to Milwaukee for more money. He was traded to the then Bobcats and soon after to the Timberwolves this past year before becoming a free agent.
Neal is an above-average shooter and will add some much-needed long-range shooting to the Wizards bench. He brings experience, leadership, and adds a spark to their bench. Gary Neal is a good backup player and the Wizards made a smart move in bringing him in for a year.
The Heat Check Magazine 