Wizards Rui Hachimura named 2nd team All-Rookie

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