Wizards bring in independent adviser to help 'reset culture'

The Washington Wizards have brought in an adviser to help "reset the culture" of the organization as it searches for Ernie Grunfeld's replacement as general manager, according to an exclusive report from Candace Buckner of The Washington Post.

Grunfeld was fired last week after 16 seasons on the job.

As Buckner reported, Forde began his career as a sports consultant after six years as the director of football operations for professional soccer club Chelsea F.C. of the English Premier League.

"Although Forde’s career started in England, he has become popular in American sports. Forde has reportedly advised the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams and Atlanta Falcons," Buckner wrote. "On his website, he lists working with the San Antonio Spurs during their 2014 NBA championship season, sharing how he 'assisted them in building a performance model for sustained success.'"

As Buckner also mentioned, Wizards owner Ted Leonsis suggested after firing Grunfeld that the franchise may seek as independent adviser before hiring a full-time GM.

The Wizards failed to qualify for the Eastern Conference playoffs and will be looking to restructure the roster this offseason in the normal fashion -- via the draft, free agency and trades.

Standout shooting guard Bradley Beal could be eligible for a super-max contract extension, though it isn't known if the Wizards would even offer one.

"My biggest concern, just like I tell everybody else, is just making sure that we’re going in the right direction. It’s easy to secure money," Beal told The Athletic. "Money is not the problem. I already have one max contract, and I can live off that and be cool. So, money is not the problem.”