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Washington Wizards forward Rui Hachimura was named to the 2019-20 NBA All-Rookie second team, the NBA announced.
Hachimura is the first Wizards player to earn the honor since Jarvis Hayes in 2003-04. He’s the fifth Wizards/Bullets player to make the team.
This was expected news. He was a solid performer throughout his rookie year, though he did struggle in the bubble. Back in July, I wrote that he deserved inclusion on the first or second team depending on how voters wanted to handle Zion Williamson’s scant playing time.
As is the norm for rookies, Hachimura’s performance game-to-game was inconsistent, but his overall production was solid.
Like nearly any rookie, Hachimura has lots of improving to do. He’ll need to get stronger, gain experience, figure how to play NBA-level defense, improve his shooting, and develop as a passer and playmaker. His floor as a player seems set as a solid rotation forward. His ceiling is a question because of his late start in basketball and the amount of work he has to do. If he does the work, he could be an All-Star.
2019-20 All-Rookie First Team
Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies
Kendrick Nunn, Miami Heat
Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans
Brandon Clarke, Memphis Grizzlies
Eric Paschall, Golden State Warriors
2019-20 All-Rookie Second Team
Coby White, Chicago Bulls
Tyler Herro, Miami Heat
Terence Davis II, Toronto Raptors
PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets
Rui Hachimura, Washington Wizards