Missed opportunities have kept the Wizards from capturing Washington’s attention

Editor’s Note: In 2003, the Wizards made dramatic changes to their front office and roster that have shaped the course of the franchise ever since. This week, we’re going to take a look back at how the events of that year altered the trajectory of the franchise—for better and worse over the past 15 years.

Ernie Grunfeld took over as the Wizards’ key basketball decision maker in July 2003 and has held the position ever since. The Wizards have gone 536-678 in the regular season (.442 winning percentage) and won four playoff series during his tenure.

Back in 2014, I thought I had it all figured out. I was living and working in Arlington, Virginia at the time and without much to do during the…