Since the All-Star break, Kyshawn George (left) has grabbed 20 blocks and 18 steals.
The Wizards (15-51) are proving there’s still a lot to play for in the final stretch of the regular season. Washington has back-to-back wins over playoff teams, and are 6-4 in their last ten, pointing to their young core’s potential.
New additions Khris Middleton and Marcus Smart are giving the team veteran leadership while the rookie class is showing some promising stretches. This combination allows Jordan Poole to play more fearlessly, which on Saturday night resulted in a brazen game-winning shot in Denver.
It starts with big man Alex Sarr, who posted a career-high 34 points, including five made 3-pointers, in the duel with three-time MVP Nikola Joki. In the previous game against Detroit, he scored 19 points, including three triples and four blocks. These are the makings of a versatile centerpiece built for the modern era.
Bub Carrington and Kyshawn George are the other rookies playing big minutes for the Wizards. Carrington flashed sooner, but as of late, George has been superb. Since the All-Star break, George has 20 blocks and 18 steals. Only Dyson Daniels (48) and Kris Dunn (41) have more combined blocks and steals in the NBA over that span.
George’s emergence as a defensive talent comes as he’s also sank 2.3 threes per game over the last month. That’s a very good return on the 24th pick.
Washington is 6-5 in the 11 games with Khris Middleton on the floor. He’s averaged 12 points, four rebounds, and four assists in those games, adding a consistent offensive threat to their lineup.
Washington’s fate this season may be sealed, but their electrifying play is sparking excitement—potentially laying the foundation for a brighter future.
