Steve Wyche of the Washington Post reports that the Wizards are close to signing Utah free agent Bryon Russell to sign a one year contract worth about $1.4 million. Russell will take over at small forward for Michael Jordan, who plans to move to shooting guard unless he opts to retire in the next few weeks.

Russell agreed to join Washington a few weeks ago, but the Wizards have been trying to work out a sign and trade with Utah to decrease its crowded back court, clear a roster spot and possibly get Russell more money. Utah vetoed two trade proposals.

The Wizards are also close to terms with second-round draft pick Rod Grizzard who will battle Bobby Simmons for the final roster spot. With Grizzard, the Wizards will have 16 players under contract. If Jordan refuses to retire the Wizards will have to trade or release at least one player before the start of the season to meet the NBA limit of 15 players.

With so many players under contract, it is highly unlikely that free agent power forward Popeye Jones will return to Washington. Jones has spoken to the Dallas Mavericks and the Seattle SuperSonics. The Wizards also plan to work out free agent forward Scott Burrell, who could be invited to training camp should he decline possibilities with New York, Seattle and Portland.