Sam Dekker’s brought much needed enthusiasm to the Wizards

Russ Isabella-USA TODAY SportsIn an effort to get the team under the luxury tax (and back in Ted Leonsis’ good graces), Ernie Grunfeld began shedding salary early in the season. The Milwaukee Bucks, who took on Jodie Meeks’ contract before the season began, were willing trade partners.

When Jason Smith opted into the player option Grunfeld foolishly gave him, Grunfeld tried to right his wrong and traded Smith to the Bucks in a three-team trade that landed Sam Dekker in Washington.

Saying goodbye to Smith, who was the team’s official stepdad for a few seasons in D.C., wasn’t easy.

While the Wizards were a playoff team during Smith’s time in Washington, they were rather miserable this past…