Recent rumors have emerged that Nenê could be shipped out of Washington as Wizards head coach Randy Wittman "has installed a new offense" that does not fit well with the Brazilian power forward.
At the very least, though, the incoming 14-year pro would be relegated to the bench as a backup center because of the team's recent offensive overhaul, according to ESPN's rumor roundup.
"Nene's going to continue, whether he's a starter or non-starter, to get the minutes he's gotten since he's been here," said Wittman. "I'm not going to play him any differently whether he's a starter or not."
It is not clear, however, if the 33-year-old veteran is happy about his coach's decision. Since coming into the NBA, Nenê started 601 of 747 regular season matches he has been in.
There were also some speculations that this season could be the last for the São Carlos, Brazil native as there were no talks of an extension as he enters the final year of his $65 million, five-year deal with the Wizards.
Since Nenê would become an unrestricted free agent next summer, he could choose to walk away from Washington with the team not getting anything in return. This is the premise of the rumor that he could be traded before the season's February deadline, although no team is reportedly interested yet in taking the Brazilian.
As early as June, Fansided had reported of Nenê's possible departure from Washington because of the team's current lineup changes and the emergence of its young players.
The report even mentioned that the Wizards actually "shopped Nenê around but haven't heard any offers" that made them push through with a trade.
If the Wizards thrive in their new offense this coming season, then expect Nenê to be used as a trade chip for Washington to acquire new blood that fits them better.
A contending team in need of a quality big man backup with an expiring contract is said to be a potential destination for the 6-foot-11 center-forward.