Bullets Forever - 2019 NBA Draft: Wizards select Rui Hachimura in first round, acquire 42nd pick Admiral Schofield from 76ers"Ain't No Luck"https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48097/BulletsForever-fv.png2019-06-27T09:00:00-04:00http://www.bulletsforever.com/rss/stream/184564322019-06-27T09:00:00-04:002019-06-27T09:00:00-04:00How could the Wizards utilize Hachimura and Schofield?
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<figcaption>Admiral Schofield takes a jumpshot against Rui Hachimura during their college days. Now, they are Wizards teammates! | Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Wizards rookies could provide a positive impact for Washington on the court in 2019. </p> <p id="O6Ajel">As the Wizards prepare for free agency, their plans need to account for how their newest players may contribute and what’s best for their long-term development. What can the team reasonably expect from Rui Hachimura and Admiral Schofield next season and what are their prospects for long-term development?</p>
<p id="6qlpBf">Let’s find out.</p>
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<h2 id="0DASZQ"><strong>What can the Wizards expect from Rui Hachimura?</strong></h2>
<p id="8zm6r8">The range of opinions on <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> first round selection <span>Hachimura</span> is somewhat amusing. Credulity-straining comparisons include <span>Kawhi Leonard</span> (no), <span>Giannis Antetokounmpo</span> (just ... no) and <span>Paul Millsap</span>. </p>
<p id="cb1OHQ">Beyond that are a mishmash of styles and NBA proficiency such as <span>Jabari Parker</span>, <span>Wilson Chandler</span>, <span>Gordon Hayward</span>, <span>Mike Scott</span> ... Onto the heap, let’s throw statistical comps from Ye Olde Draft Analyzer: <span>Marcus Morris</span>, <span>Rondae Hollis-Jefferson</span> and <span>Michael Kidd-Gilchrist</span>.</p>
<p id="gcgUae">A big reason the comparisons are so diverse is that Hachimura is a draft Rorschach test. He has an NBA-ready body — length, agility, leaping ability all more or less check the right boxes. His statistical production is there ... sort of ... and he flashes enough ability for eye test scouting to like him ... or not. Different scouts pick up on different things and the net result is a range of opinions that stretch from future star to second round value.</p>
<p id="x42El8">Physically, he has solid NBA power forward size and athleticism. His agility scores suggest he won’t be capable of playing significant minutes at small forward. He seems to have the strength and physicality to play center in small-ball sets.</p>
<p id="hDIjyL">At Gonzaga, he scored efficiently, got to the free throw line and rebounded decently. He wasn’t much of a passer, but he also did a decent job avoiding turnovers. </p>
<p id="QehTev">The pre-draft consensus was that he’s a poor defender, but the play type tracking data indicates he did a solid job as an on-ball defender in the paint. Like most NBA prospects, he has weaknesses on the defensive end. In Hachimura’s case, there’s cause for concern when he’s matched in isolation (especially against quality ballhandlers), closeouts on shooters and picking up cutters. </p>
<p id="Cu37rO">He wasn’t much of a rim protector — just 1.0 blocks per 40 minutes, a paltry number for a player of his size and athleticism. Gripes about his lack of feel for the game are fair. His ball handling isn’t NBA ready.</p>
<p id="TzSXc9">All that said, Hachimura was an elite scorer in college who was efficient in an array of offensive sets, even with a low volume from three point range and got to the free throw line at an above-average rate. Scouts have fretted about a hitch in Hachimura’s jumper (and they’re right), but his accuracy is top-shelf. A lot of time and attention goes into shooting mechanics, but the “right” way to shoot the ball is the one that gets it through the hoop. </p>
<p id="RCVG0i">There have been plenty of successful NBA shooters with unorthodox or “wrong” mechanics. Hachimura should worry about The Hitch if it affects how quickly he can release the shot or if he starts missing.</p>
<p id="fuBtOI">A significant portion of Hachimura’s offense at Gonzaga came from knocking down midrange jumpers. These are the shots NBA defenses want the opposition to take. The break-even point on those shots is high, but his accuracy on two-point jumpers could be useful as the shot clock winds down. </p>
<p id="OGs3oO">As a rookie, Hachimura can likely find a role as a bench forward who provides a scoring boost. He seems an ideal candidate for pick-and-pop sets, although the Wizards don’t have the personnel to play off Hachimura’s screens and he needs to improve on his screen setting. </p>
<p id="MLCDNw">The Wizards coaching staff would also be wise to create opportunities for Hachimura to be a cutter. He exhibited good hands and excellent at-rim finishing at Gonzaga, but his ball handling doesn’t appear to be good enough for dribble drive penetration or to reliably attack closeouts.</p>
<p id="vUQOrt">The Wizards need to get him comfortable taking threes at a significantly higher rate than he did in college. If he’s able to be an accurate three-point shooter at a good volume (eight-plus attempts per 100 team possessions), he could have an impact similar to <span>Ryan Anderson</span> (pre-back injury and personal tragedy).</p>
<p id="oj5w16">Early in his career, the Wizards’ coaches would be smart to simplify Hachimura’s decision-making as he develops that mystical “feel.” While YODA doesn’t forecast a high ceiling for Hachimura, he could develop into a solid starter with patience and hard work. </p>
<aside id="Xwa8gp"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Here’s why Hachimura can be the next Giannis!","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/25/18735717/washington-wizards-rui-hachimura-player-breakdown-giannis-antetokounmpo-ceiling"},{"title":"Get to know Rui Hachimura from a Gonzaga expert","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/25/18715740/rui-hachimura-washington-wizards-gonzaga-bulldogs-player-analysis"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="agpt8L">
<h2 id="DZEW1F"><strong>What can the Wizards expect from Admiral Schofield?</strong></h2>
<p id="rbWHD3">Second round pick Admiral Schofield instantly joins the pantheon of great NBA names. His selection is metaphysical proof Abe Pollin should have named the team Sea Dogs.</p>
<p id="drbLdh">Brushing past the issue of whether Schofield should have been the choice at 42 (it should have been <span>Bol Bol</span>), it’s dubious whether he’ll ever be more than an end-of-bench type. He was tough and physical at Tennessee and he shot well from three-point range. But, his rebounding was so-so, he struggled to finish inside (. 505 two-point percentage) and his steal and block numbers were on the low side for a 3 & D guy. His free throw shooting — generally a better indicator of true shooting ability — was just under 70 percent.</p>
<p id="uiVp89">There’s an NBA role for Schofield if he can truly become the 3 & D guy every team seeks. His ball handling is too shaky to be a lead offensive threat, but he can be effective by camping in the weakside corner and waiting for kickouts and potentially as a cutter. </p>
<p id="0cX2Yj">Schofield will need to develop into a high-quality defender to maximize his potential. This means becoming as good a team defender as he was on-ball at Tennessee. While he’s not long by NBA standards, Schofield may be strong and tough enough to play some four in small-ball sets (similar to PJ Tucker in Houston).</p>
<p id="GxHnb4">Schofield’s stat comps from YODA aren’t very promising: James Bell (who didn’t play in the NBA), Jeff Taylor (one (bad) season with Charlotte), <span>Terrence Ross</span> (decent role player) and Lamar Patterson. Still, he’s tough and competitive, and like virtually every drafted player, could be a productive NBA player if he works hard and smart.</p>
<aside id="1PtfkN"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"76ers select Admiral Schofield 42nd before trade to Wizards","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700229/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-philadelphia-76ers-admiral-schofield-42nd-overall"},{"title":"76ers select Admiral Schofield 42nd before trade to Wizards","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700229/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-philadelphia-76ers-admiral-schofield-42nd-overall"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="7cNpKD">
<p id="W4Pqxf">The selections of Hachimura and Schofield are suggestive that interim president Tommy Sheppard and the front office believe the team is closer to being competitive than most outsiders. They’ve selected mature “culture” guys who would seem to have shorter development paths to becoming NBA contributors than younger players with potentially higher upsides.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/27/18758803/washington-wizards-rui-hachimura-admiral-schofield-usageKevin Broom2019-06-26T11:00:00-04:002019-06-26T11:00:00-04:00Get to know Admiral Schofield from a UT Vols expert
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<figcaption>Admiral Schofield is one of the Wizards’ two 2019 NBA draft picks. | Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We reached out to our counterparts from Terry Lambert from Rocky Top Talk to learn more about Admiral Schofield’s development during his college days.</p> <p id="mYYmkR">The <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> acquired the rights to <span>Admiral Schofield</span>, the No. 42 pick in the 2019 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> after trading for him with the <a href="https://www.libertyballers.com/">Philadelphia 76ers</a>. To help us learn more about his time with the <a href="https://www.rockytoptalk.com/">Tennessee Volunteers</a>, I reached out to Terry Lambert from <em>Rocky Top Talk</em>, SB Nation’s Tennessee Volunteers and Lady Volunteers blog. </p>
<p id="xXflUW">How did <span>Schofield</span> develop during his four years at Tennessee? And how could he help the Wizards right away? Our Q&A is below.</p>
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<h3 id="Oc9lvL"><strong>Bullets Forever: Schofield has developed into a strong all-around player for Tennessee in his career. What parts of his game do you think have improved the most over his four years?</strong></h3>
<p id="ZCuRtr"><strong>Terry Lambert: </strong>When Schofield committed, he was 6-6 and a pudgy 250 pounds. He resembled more of a post player from the start, but that quickly changed. As Admiral changed his physique, he became more of a threat on the perimeter. He transformed into this unique, physical guard who could handle minutes in the post, along with playing as a traditional shooting guard. </p>
<p id="MnHAa4">Secondly, Schofield became Tennessee’s best outside shooter. He came in shooting 30 percent from three-point range as a freshman, but that number went up each season. As a senior, he shot 41 percent from the outside. That number should translate immediately at the next level. </p>
<h3 id="S50ae1"><strong>BF: NBA Draft analysts are often weary of the upside a senior layer has vs. a freshman. How does Schofield get past that misconception?</strong></h3>
<p id="gAIfWr"><strong>TL: </strong>Schofield has been through the fire. To me, there’s something to be said for three-star kids who make themselves into NBA prospects. Rick Barnes’ program isn’t for everyone, but those who buy in have really seen the benefits. Barnes sent three different three-star prospects to the league this year. That’s pretty amazing. </p>
<p id="RQmWZc">Schofield did a little bit of everything in Knoxville and I think that sets him up well for his next challenge. That versatility off of the bench will be valuable immediately, coming from a guy who has done it all for four years at Tennessee. Admiral is a guy lacking upside, but he’s probably going to come in an do all the little things for you immediately. </p>
<h3 id="ME3ywA"><strong>BF: If there was an NBA player who Schofield could emulate, who would it be?</strong></h3>
<p id="u3GEwU"><strong>TL: </strong>I’ve had this question before and it’s a tough one. My best answer is <a href="https://www.thedreamshake.com/">Rockets</a> forward <span>P.J. Tucker</span>. A guy that can play the wing and give you some minutes at the power forward spot in a pinch. Admiral is going to have to improve his post defense to that level, but I think the role <span>Tucker</span> has carved out for himself in the league will be similar to Schofield’s. </p>
<h3 id="i7Prh8"><strong>BF: What kind of a role do you expect Schofield to get with the Wizards?</strong></h3>
<p id="UJmE6H"><strong>TL: </strong>Kind of building off of my last answer, I think Admiral is a guy who can play the 2-4. He’s going to bring energy off of the bench immediately, wherever he plays on the floor. He’s a whatever-you-need-him-to-do type guy, who can handle just about whatever you throw at him. </p>
<p id="Ws2CuI">While Schofield lacks the athleticism to ever be a big time scorer in the league, he’s a good enough shooter, rebounder and defender to find a role. I see him as a reserve guard/wing player primarily, hopefully settling into a rotation quickly. </p>
<h3 id="lMONAt"><strong>BF: Which parts of Schofield’s game do you wish he improves on next year?</strong></h3>
<p id="vOJ1mR"><strong>TL: </strong>I thought Schofield could have attacked the rim more in his senior year. Part of that was because the offense ran so much through <span>Grant Williams</span> and <span>Jordan Bone</span>, but Admiral didn’t drive as much as I thought he could. He’s a strong finisher at the rim and he needs to utilize that more.</p>
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<p id="TbMKYU">Thanks again to Terry and <em>Rocky Top Talk</em> for their answers!</p>
<aside id="ZVukTK"><div data-anthem-component="actionbox" data-anthem-component-data='{"title":"Want to read more on UT Sports?","description":"Check out Rocky Top Talk, SB Nation’s Tennessee sports blog.","label":"Rocky Top Talk","url":"http://www.rockytoptalk.com"}'></div></aside><p id="2jMzce"></p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/26/18759030/admiral-schofield-washington-wizards-tennessee-volunteers-player-analysisAlbert Lee2019-06-25T08:00:00-04:002019-06-25T08:00:00-04:00Get to know Rui Hachimura from a Gonzaga expert
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<figcaption>Rui Hachimura has developed nicely with the Gonzaga Bulldogs over the years. So we spoke to our counterparts at The Slipper Still Fits. | Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>We spoke to Peter Woodburn of The Slipper Still Fits to learn more about what the Gonzaga star and Wizards rookie can do in the NBA.</p> <p id="sPQJMl"><span>Rui Hachimura</span> is coming to the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> from Gonzaga! But how do the fans in Spokane, Wash. remember him? To help get a better perspective, I chatted with <a href="https://twitter.com/wernies">Peter Woodburn</a>, the site manager for <a href="https://www.slipperstillfits.com"><em>The Slipper Still Fits</em></a>, SB Nation’s <a href="https://www.slipperstillfits.com/">Gonzaga Bulldogs</a> blog. Our Q&A is below.</p>
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<h3 id="KzeXxj"><strong>Bullets Forever: Hachimura increased his scoring each of his three years at Gonzaga. How has he been able to develop so quickly? </strong></h3>
<p id="HhUpEK"><strong>Peter Woodburn:</strong> Rui is an athletic specimen whose route to basketball was a bit wonky, all considering. He didn’t start playing basketball until he was 14 years old, starting out in Japan as a catcher. </p>
<p id="wdhr0m">When he arrived at Gonzaga, his English comprehension was hardly up to par for what would be required in game day communication. That is one of the biggest reasons why his freshman year he only played a few minutes per game, despite, even at that time, many national pundits saying Rui was the best NBA prospect on the squad.</p>
<p id="CA1iUT">The Gonzaga coaching staff has been very clear from the get go that Rui was on a three-year plan. The first year was dipping the toe in, the second year was dipping the foot in and the third year was diving into the deep end. </p>
<p id="k4SDF9">Rui has a great natural feel for the game and the size/athleticism to make up for many of the shortcomings players might struggle through. The biggest reason for his development rests in the Gonzaga coaching staff’s patient approach, as well as Rui’s endless hard work.</p>
<h3 id="Jzudwq">
<strong>BF: NBA pundits are concerned whether Hachimura’s defense can sync with his offense. What steps could he take to improve on the defensive end</strong>?</h3>
<p id="S9XNia"><strong>PW: </strong>Luckily, Rui has the intangibles (wingspan, height, quickness, etc.) that I think he should be fine on defense after some time. Legitimately, his defense, more specifically, the lack thereof sometimes, is rather frustrating. </p>
<p id="aelfWS">He can equally be remembered for blocking <span>RJ Barrett</span>’s final shot when Gonzaga defeated Duke at the Maui Invitational as much as allowing his future Wizards teammate <span>Admiral Schofield</span> to hit a wide-open, game-winning three-pointer in Tennessee’s win over the Zags.</p>
<p id="nJBNmz">That said, I think it goes back to the communication thing. I haven’t tried, but I imagine successfully navigating defensive play is quite a bit harder when you don’t fully grasp the language. Now that he does, his defensive awareness is the next thing that needs to step up, because he has the athleticism to make it all work on defending multiple positions in the NBA.</p>
<h3 id="dZNByE"><strong>BF: If there was an NBA player who Hachimura could emulate, who would it be?</strong></h3>
<p id="Eb1XFo"><strong>PW: </strong>This is always the worst question for me. I am from Seattle and basically gave up watching the NBA consistently after the SuperSonics left town, so pretty much I’m an occasional casual NBA playoff watcher. </p>
<p id="5PDpiu">So whatever hypothetical power forward who can create his own offense, owns an absolutely beautiful midrange shot, is fast enough to run the floor and is a devil to deal with if successfully posted up. Rui’s speed and body type means teams can shove him at center if desperate or put him on the wing if needed.</p>
<p id="AXJMQw"><strong>BF: </strong>Hachimura could be someone like Wizards legend Antawn Jamison. Jamison was able to create his offense, had a good jump shot from midrange to the three and was able to run the floor. Totally understand where you’re coming from with the Sonics, though.</p>
<h3 id="nTWfEw"><strong>BF: What kind of a role do you expect Hachimura to get with the Wizards?</strong></h3>
<p id="EJ2hIg"><strong>PW: </strong>If I were a Washington Wizards fan, I would take whatever dream I have of Rui Hachimura winning Rookie of the Year and shove it where the sun does not shine. Rui has an incredibly high ceiling, but there is still plenty of work to be done, both for him and through getting the proper coaching. </p>
<p id="iN0tpu">I would imagine Rui maybe averaging 15-ish minutes next year, doing some fun looking things on offense and probably getting yanked multiple times in games due to defensive breakdowns. If you are a fan that is willing to work long-term, you’ll be totally fine with Rui. If you are screaming about top 10 picks at the TV, you are probably in for a bumpy ride.</p>
<h3 id="9S0zpj">
<strong>BF: Gonzaga, unlike some other top college programs, has a significant number of non-American players besides Hachimura, like </strong><a href="https://gozags.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=2533"><strong>Filip Petrusev</strong></a><strong> for example. How has that influenced the style of play and kept the Bulldogs in the national title conversation in recent seasons?</strong>
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<p id="7FjcFz"><strong>PW:</strong> You hit the nail on the head for how Gonzaga has been able to compete in recent years. Although the recruiting has really taken a turn for the better in the past few years, it is important to remember that the major high school recruits usually don’t end up at Gonzaga. Zach Collins was the first one-and-done in school history. </p>
<p id="icSbJr">This year, the Bulldogs had two first-round draft picks (Rui and <span>Brandon Clarke</span>). That actually set a new school record! While the recruiting battles pivoted to AAU circuits and all that jazz, the Zags sent Assistant Coach Tommy Lloyd off around the world, and now Gonzaga has, I would argue, the best resume for international prospects. </p>
<p id="k2goGf">Next season, the Zags roster will feature two players from France, one player from Serbia, one player from Russia and one player from Mali. Often times, the players the Zags are getting would be four- or five-star recruits if the sites actually rated international prospects. </p>
<p id="Kt3UmM">As far as style of play, you do end up seeing a little bit more FIBA ball than most squads. The Zags have owned one of more efficient offenses in the nation for the past few years because it relies more on finding the best shot, not just hero ball. </p>
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<p id="vyBLmg">Thanks again to Peter for helping us out here. Check out more information on the Gonzaga Bulldogs by logging onto <em>The Slipper Still Fits</em>!</p>
<aside id="fYpVv2"><div data-anthem-component="actionbox" data-anthem-component-data='{"title":"Check out SB Nation’s Gonzaga Bulldogs blog!","description":"The Slipper Still Fits has content on all things Gonzaga Bulldogs!","label":"Click here!","url":"http://www.slipperstillfits.com"}'></div></aside>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/25/18715740/rui-hachimura-washington-wizards-gonzaga-bulldogs-player-analysisAlbert Lee2019-06-21T21:30:00-04:002019-06-21T21:30:00-04:00Japanese media is REALLY excited about Hachimura in D.C.
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<figcaption>Candace Buckner speaks to Japanese media on June 21, 2019 | <a class="ql-link" href="https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS/status/1142110860632088577" target="_blank">Chase Hughes Twitter</a></figcaption>
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<p>There aren’t many Asian NBA players out there. So Hachimura is getting a lot of media coverage in his native Japan, perhaps more than here in the United States.</p> <p id="rx95nS"><a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> forward <span>Rui Hachimura</span> has had a hectic couple of days. Like other lottery picks, Hachimura did many interviews and had to travel by train last-minute from New York City to Washington. But unlike most <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> picks who come from the United States, Hachimura is from Toyama, a city about a <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Toyama,+Japan/Tokyo,+Japan/@36.5305033,137.9303314,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m15!4m14!1m5!1m1!1s0x5ff7f20918176af5:0x6d5abf97791f1de3!2m2!1d137.2137211!2d36.6958223!1m5!1m1!1s0x60188b857628235d:0xcdd8aef709a2b520!2m2!1d139.7690174!2d35.6803997!3e0!4e1">five-and-a-half hour and 270-mile drive</a> away from Tokyo.</p>
<p id="YB7wMx">Hachimura is the first Japanese NBA player to be drafted in the first round. In a country that is better known for producing baseball stars than basketball ones, this is the biggest sports news in Japan.</p>
<p id="yshCoo">Here are some of the recent stories from Japan covering Hachimura’s news since yesterday. Since I can’t read, write or speak Japanese, I had to use Google Translate to get the gist of basic headlines. So let’s get a quick runthrough.</p>
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<a href="https://www.nikkansports.com/sports/news/201906220000030.html">Nikkan Sports </a>— As you may know, Hachimura wears the No. 9 jersey. He has, however, worn No. 23 for Gonzaga and Japan. It appears that Hachimura doesn’t want to wear Michael Jordan’s number since he played for the Wizards from 2001-03 — or at least he respects that fact.</li>
<li id="Ni79MC">
<a href="https://www.tokyo-np.co.jp/article/column/editorial/CK2019062202000161.html">Tokyo-np.co.jp</a> — This column appears to be quite complimentary about the growth of basketball in the country as well as Hachimura’s in the USA.</li>
<li id="HP4vmR">
<a href="https://hochi.news/articles/20190621-OHT1T50256.html">Hochi.news</a> — MLB legend Ichiro Suzuki gives his take on Hachimura being the first Japanese player to be drafted in the NBA’s first round. He mentioned that the first person carries a big weight on his shoulders. In this case, it goes to Hachimura.</li>
<li id="AnQxkQ">
<a href="https://the-ans.jp/news/64442/">The Answer</a> — No, this site is not a Japanese Allen Iverson shrine as far as I can tell. But the site mentioned that Tommy Sheppard coveted Hachimura for “a couple years.”</li>
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<p id="dKGs3R">Members of the Wizards’ media circuit have also been mobbed by their Japanese counterparts. Candace Buckner of The Washington Post and Chase Hughes of NBC Sports Washington are just two of the many people in that position!</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/CandaceDBuckner?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CandaceDBuckner</a> making the Japanese television rounds. <a href="https://t.co/ENqI2zCget">pic.twitter.com/ENqI2zCget</a></p>— Chase Hughes (@ChaseHughesNBCS) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS/status/1142110860632088577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Not sure what <a href="https://twitter.com/ChaseHughesNBCS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChaseHughesNBCS</a> was telling this TV crew from Japan but I’m sure it was fake news <a href="https://t.co/x5xFWsU81L">pic.twitter.com/x5xFWsU81L</a></p>— Candace Buckner (@CandaceDBuckner) <a href="https://twitter.com/CandaceDBuckner/status/1142140251755995136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="90bQO9">The Wizards media circuit is always looking for new regulars. So I’m really stoked to see the Japanese media here because Hachimura is drafted and hope they are there throughout the season.</p>
<p id="LucjRs"></p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700974/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-rui-hachimura-japanese-media-coverageAlbert Lee2019-06-21T16:00:31-04:002019-06-21T16:00:31-04:00Rui Hachimura meets Wizards, speaks to D.C. media
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<figcaption>Washington Wizards Facebook Site</figcaption>
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<p>The Wizards’ first round pick heads to the nation’s capital, just one day after getting selected ninth.</p> <p id="KeJtHW">First round draft picks who are picked in the lottery have very hectic days. They take many pictures and interview with the media in New York. Then, they may shake hands with NBA Commissionner Adam Silver. And then, MORE interviews!</p>
<p id="2315xk">For <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> forward <span>Rui Hachimura</span>, that was his Thursday. Take a look at this video belwo.</p>
<div id="sPty54">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"I feel like I'm dreaming."<br><br>A behind the scenes look from <a href="https://twitter.com/rui_8mura?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rui_8mura</a>'s <a href="https://twitter.com/NBADraft?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NBADraft</a> night in New York!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WizDraft?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WizDraft</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCFamily?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCFamily</a> <a href="https://t.co/Js7do6bRQP">pic.twitter.com/Js7do6bRQP</a></p>— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashWizards/status/1142069661082632194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="hEYb6K">And on Friday, he had to take a train down to Washington for another round of media appearances.</p>
<div id="vI5ilu">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Arriving at Union Station!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCFamily?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCFamily</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/rui_8mura?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rui_8mura</a> <a href="https://t.co/DTvZvNIfXm">pic.twitter.com/DTvZvNIfXm</a></p>— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashWizards/status/1142085787674173440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="emOa1d">Though some Wizards fans and the national media think Tommy Sheppard and friends were doofuses for picking him over <span>Cam Reddish</span>, you wouldn’t know it at Capital One Arena when he finally met head coach <span>Scott Brooks</span>, Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations Tommy Shepard and ownership.</p>
<div id="LWTlVz">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/rui_8mura?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rui_8mura</a>'s first day on the job!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCFamily?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCFamily</a> <a href="https://t.co/RCNiRQ0sI4">pic.twitter.com/RCNiRQ0sI4</a></p>— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashWizards/status/1142102689297383425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="6nGPjr">Eventually, Hachimura spoke to the media with Sheppard and Brooks. The entire press conference can be seen in the embed above or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Wizards/videos/2348243285503155/?__xts__[0]=68.ARBm3g8qwc1Q-9QywJKpun3yUbzTgR127hLDt003kRRsAFQ8KGr2IiGH-a7oDzhKYVayleP1s6YLHrnzanjK7-o0zBxUhXMVibThtbEmmQ9nq7xvtuXVLMd4Uywt6VVzTFOVZcwOrJct6RCnV-d3hrsh67uC-EbBA_I4cIYM3MQQC9T2V2Tj3JQLZIKjGig5L5bGWVApPlDaPWqTcRaMHNvfpfubnmsCfhAFOHI_PQaeBBWyoZo5TlZ_btkhfZfeFTgVOcOqCtcMoQTvoYFqNaQL1EySnMWvow_RdHXxWFHVSsmK2Ti61KEyEK7BW0ToCwSBJqvDn0CRC50yMea1-QwZsweHJirU-g&__tn__=-R">you can click here.</a></p>
<p id="WO3gxs">I don’t think the press conference had any snippets that I haven’r heard before, but you can definitely see him be the Grand Marshal of next year’s Cherry Blossom Parade.</p>
<div id="MhyZ3D">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rui on coming to D.C.: “I heard about the cherry blossoms. That’s like a Japanese thing. I heard there’s a lot of Japanese people here. I’m so excited to meet everyone.”</p>— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashWizards/status/1142119823876530177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="f754qt">Finally, Hachimura took photos in his new team uniform</p>
<div id="T4BcO3">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Officially in uniform <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCFamily?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCFamily</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/rui_8mura?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rui_8mura</a> <a href="https://t.co/IPciEMPq3b">pic.twitter.com/IPciEMPq3b</a></p>— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashWizards/status/1142151320440381440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="1eS9VU">and had a conversation with <span>John Wall</span>.</p>
<div id="mzpX5Q">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/JohnWall?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JohnWall</a> FaceTimed <a href="https://twitter.com/rui_8mura?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rui_8mura</a> mid-photoshoot! ⭐️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCFamily?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCFamily</a> <a href="https://t.co/wzNpxnUQy4">pic.twitter.com/wzNpxnUQy4</a></p>— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) <a href="https://twitter.com/WashWizards/status/1142149818753658882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="oLBxXj">He’ll also be repping wearing Jordan Brand gear this upcoming season.</p>
<div id="ysp5qt">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Japan’s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JUMPMAN?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JUMPMAN</a>⁰<br><br>Welcome to the Future of Flight, <a href="https://twitter.com/rui_8mura?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rui_8Mura</a>.</p>— Jordan (@Jumpman23) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jumpman23/status/1142147328616407041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<p id="SoxVsX">I’m already starting to feel excited for the 2019-20 NBA season. Is it October yet?!</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18701227/2019-nba-draft-washington-wziards-rui-hachimura-press-conferenceAlbert Lee2019-06-21T12:00:39-04:002019-06-21T12:00:39-04:00The Wizards aren’t “losers” because they drafted Hachimura
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<img alt="2019 NBA Draft" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/frYhGWBEiwkCxqYWLMBeBAAR-7Y=/0x0:4591x3061/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64059075/1157239943.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>No, Rui Hachimura wasn’t a bad choice by the Washington Wizards, even if they are under interim leadership. | Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>You may read that some early NBA Draft analysis pieces are pegging the Wizards as losers. But Rui Hachimura’s selection is also about setting a new team culture in Washington.</p> <p id="5ZDVoT">With the 2019 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> now complete, the draft gurus and NBA analysts out there were quick to give their takes on how well each team did. So far, at least some sources believe the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> did poorly when they picked <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/20/18693704/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-gonzaga-bulldogs-rui-hachimura-ninth-overall">Rui Hachimura ninth overall</a> on Thursday night.</p>
<h2 id="IU8xvx"><strong>Who thought the Wizards lost on Draft Night?</strong></h2>
<p id="Gqx4ZF">At least several people gave Washington lukewarm reactions. Here are just three of them.</p>
<ul>
<li id="qnXIan">
<strong>SB Nation’s Matt Ellentuck</strong><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/2019/6/21/18693648/nba-draft-2019-recap-winners-losers-zion-williamson"> labeled the Wizards a “loser”</a> — In Ellentuck’s piece he stated that Hachimura is “a scoring forward who isn’t a skilled defender.” Ellentuck also faulted the acquisition of <span>Jonathon Simmons</span> as another move to pick up a not-so-great defender.</li>
<li id="Ibg2iT">
<strong>SB Nation’s Ricky O’Donnell wasn’t a fan — </strong>He gave draft grades for each of the draft picks. He <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2019/6/20/18693450/nba-draft-grades-2019-first-round-zion-williamson-trades-pelicans-ja-morant">gave the Wizards a “D”</a> for similar reasons as Ellentuck.</li>
<li id="Js3TlZ">
<strong>The Ringer’s Jonathan Tjarks </strong>also <a href="https://www.theringer.com/nba-draft/2019/6/20/18693649/2019-nba-draft-grades-zion-williamson">gave the Wizards a “D” </a>because he questioned whether Hachimura can score efficiently in the NBA.</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="1v1teN"><strong>Why didn’t the Wizards lose when they picked Hachimura?</strong></h2>
<p id="6pMZcF">It’s easy to read other sites and tweets bashing Washington for the same tired reasons like “Hachimura hasn’t scored efficiently yet for the NBA.” Reasons like “The Wizards have no GM and didn’t visit him!” or xenophobic reasons like “The Wizards picked Hachimura just because he’s Japanese.” </p>
<p id="kZRTQ7">Look, even <span>Zion Williamson</span> hasn’t scored efficiently in the NBA, yet EVERYONE thinks he’s the best player since LeBron James, if not Michael Jordan. Even me! </p>
<p id="V9HdtQ">Anyway, here’s why the Wizards didn’t “lose” last night:</p>
<ul><li id="2QdXZp">
<strong>We ran the numbers — </strong>Kevin Broom wrote his Draft preview on Thursday and stated that based on previous production, Hachimura was in “Tier Three” on his board. The one “Tier One” player is Zion Williamson while the “Tier Two” players were <span>Ja Morant</span> and <span>RJ Barrett</span>. Hachimura was on “Tier Three” with <span>Coby White</span>, <span>Goga Bitadze</span> and Darius Garland. All but Bitadze were drafted in the Top-10. Kevin didn’t say that Hachimura will be an NBA star, but he did say that Hachimura is a solid pick given where Washington is.</li></ul>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hard to believe there wasn't a trade down.<br><br>Also, this answers the question I posed in my draft preview: How much risk could the Wiz tolerate? The answer: very little. Not a high upside for Hachimura. Should be a decent rotation guy in time.</p>— The Secret Weapon (@Broom_Kevin) <a href="https://twitter.com/Broom_Kevin/status/1141867651444150273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<ul><li id="jk2XSL">
<strong>Coachability matters </strong>— Hachimura played three seasons for Mark Few, one of the top men’s college basketball coaches in the country. He did so while taking on an increased role each season AND had to learn English at the same time. Now that the language barrier is out of the way, Hachimura’s development can improve more. Also, take this tweet response by Ricky Kersey into account when it comes to drafting non-Americans. From seeing Hachimura’s trajectory, it certainly seems that Hachimura is a quick learner.</li></ul>
<div id="3tcR7y">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">From my experience in college basketball recruiting, foreign players are normally a little more humble and work harder, not expecting as much to be given as us Americans. Not saying that’s the case here just perspective. (Shoot me, I know)</p>— Ricky Kersey (@rakersey) <a href="https://twitter.com/rakersey/status/1141871663216152576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2019</a>
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<ul><li id="Gvxzey">
<strong>Tommy Sheppard may be an interim general manager, but he is running the team into his own image — </strong>The biggest punchline on the Wizards’ front office is that they don’t have a permanent President of Basketball Operations. Sheppard, however, doesn’t seem like he wants to act like a lame duck though. He made moves that indicate that he wants a team identity different than Ernie Grunfeld envisioned. Yes, Sheppard was part of Grunfeld’s regime. But until we know this search is coming to an end, it’s important to note what moves he is making, especially those that go against Grunfeld’s tendencies to pick prospects with a lot of athletic and talent potential and a lack of work ethic.</li></ul>
<aside id="C8rPs7"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"3 takeaways from the Wizards’ 2019 NBA Draft night","url":"https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700351/2019-nba-draft-rui-hachimura-admiral-schofield-maturity-tommy-sheppard-tomas-satoransky-free-agency"}]}'></div></aside><hr class="p-entry-hr" id="nVCVGj">
<p id="2zVTcB">So if you want to consider me a shill for Monumental Sports & Entertainment, fine. But I don’t think the Wizards made poor moves. Yes, there were players who COULD be bigger stars down the line. </p>
<p id="onZkbu">But Washington needed a culture change on the types of players who come in. They need players who can contribute right away and still show upside. The Wizards’ picks help set the foundation of that culture, even if they don’t project to be franchise stars down the road.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700735/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-rui-hachimura-admiral-schofield-not-losersAlbert Lee2019-06-21T10:54:46-04:002019-06-21T10:54:46-04:0076ers select Admiral Schofield 42nd before trade to Wizards
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<img alt="NCAA Basketball: NCAA Tournament-South Regional-Purdue vs Tennessee" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wny0X0n06j0YoTVQJRtJUML-puk=/0x486:3605x2889/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64055665/usa_today_12432752.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Admiral Schofield is reportedly the Wizards’ first second round pick once he is traded to Washington from the 76ers. | Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Schofield played four seasons for the Tennessee Volunteers and led them to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.</p> <p id="istJPm">The <a href="https://www.libertyballers.com/">Philadelphia 76ers</a> selected guard/forward <span>Admiral Schofield</span> with the 42nd pick in the 2019 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a>. <span>Schofield</span> played four seasons for the <a href="https://www.rockytoptalk.com/">Tennessee Volunteers</a>, who advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. </p>
<p id="67IfLu">Schofield was subsequently traded to the <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> along with reserve guard/forward <span>Jonathon Simmons</span> for cash considerations.</p>
<p id="0hVCGL">In the 2018-19 season, Schofield averaged 16.5 points and 6.1 rebounds for the Volunteers. He also made 41.8 percent of his threes while also averaging two made threes a game. This will be an asset for the Wizards who look to add more shooters, like most NBA teams.</p>
<p id="dzbDP6">The Wizards now have a bumper crop of wings on the roster with <span>Bradley Beal</span> returning and <span>Jabari Parker</span> if the team picks up his $20 million option next season. They also <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/20/18693704/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-gonzaga-bulldogs-rui-hachimura-ninth-overall">drafted Rui Hachimura</a> in the first round though he is a bit more of a power forward than a wing. It will be interesting to see how the roster sorts itself out in the coming weeks.</p>
<p id="vuZ8Sq">So in advance, Welcome to D.C., Admiral!</p>
<p id="qlndO5"></p>
<p id="H6iryE"></p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700229/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-philadelphia-76ers-admiral-schofield-42nd-overallAlbert Lee2019-06-21T09:00:00-04:002019-06-21T09:00:00-04:003 takeaways from the Wizards’ 2019 NBA Draft night
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<img alt="2019 NBA Draft" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xfuY8OBE9oqwr5mTHUfFYEH5JeY=/0x0:2275x1517/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/64057148/1157245622.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Rui Hachimura isn’t a 19-year old teenager coming into the NBA. That means he’s likely coming in with a more mature mentality. The Wizards need that. | Photo by Mike Coppola/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The NBA Draft is now over. So let’s see what the Wizards’ direction is from here.</p> <p id="nPE0H9">The 2019 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba-draft">NBA Draft</a> is over. The <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/">Wizards</a> drafted Rui Hachimura ninth overall and made a reported trade with the <a href="https://www.libertyballers.com/">76ers</a> for the rights to Admiral Schofield and wing player <span>Jonathon Simmons</span>. Let’s now talk about where Washington is likely headed when free agency starts, as well as next season.</p>
<h2 id="b3tQcn"><strong>Tommy Sheppard wants to change the culture with maturity</strong></h2>
<p id="L0snfS">Ernie Grunfeld, the previous President of Basketball Operations made many draft picks to bring in players who had a lot of athletic potential. Players like Jan Vesely, <span>JaVale McGee</span> and <span>Kelly Oubre Jr.</span> are examples of the many great athletes who came to Washington over the years. But they weren’t mature enough to maximize their potential in the nation’s capital. In <span>McGee</span>’s case in particular, he was viewed more as a “Shaqtin a Fool” gimmick than as a player.</p>
<p id="aZa1YO">Sheppard drafted a college junior in Hachimura and a senior in Schofield. Both come to the NBA as players in their early 20s where they have become team leaders on the court and in the locker room. </p>
<p id="qoESAR">Wizards head coach <span>Scott Brooks</span> noted Hachimura’s maturity and life experience as positive attributes. And in regard to Schofield, the Tennessee Volunteer mentioned that he believes that maturity will help him in the NBA after working out for the <a href="https://www.blazersedge.com/">Portland Trail Blazers</a>.</p>
<div id="VZkgH0">
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">"They need guys who can do the little things. I'm that guy." <a href="https://twitter.com/Vol_Hoops?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Vol_Hoops</a> Admiral Schofield (<a href="https://twitter.com/admiralelite15?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@admiralelite15</a>) leaning on discipline, maturity as a four-year college athlete in preparation for next level. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ripcity?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ripcity</a> <a href="https://t.co/pwldLKvZiq">pic.twitter.com/pwldLKvZiq</a></p>— NBC Sports Northwest (@NBCSNorthwest) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSNorthwest/status/1140363767957598209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2019</a>
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<p id="XsGuwM">In today’s NBA, the top picks are often 19-year old freshmen who are just a year removed from high school. While some of those top players do turn into All-Stars, they are often very raw prospects early on in the NBA. </p>
<p id="2IfYvF">Older players in their early 20s may not necessarily have as high of a ceiling, but they are also more likely to have a higher floor and a more disciplined mentality. Fortunately for Washington, they drafted two players who fit that mold.</p>
<h2 id="DTALAd">
<strong>The Wizards are committed to building around </strong><span><strong>Bradley Beal</strong></span>
</h2>
<p id="WwUp0W">And by extension, the Wizards aren’t going to just “blow it up” and “start all over.” I’m not sure if Sheppard is doing this because he truly believes the Wizards can compete or because team owner Ted Leonsis is telling him to make moves in line with competing sooner, even if it hurts the team’s ceiling.</p>
<p id="tfteMI">I think there were some players with higher ceilings in this draft like Nassir Little of North Carolina or Sekou Doumbouya of Limoges CSP. However, neither Little or Doumbouya are as productive as Hachimura or Schofield at the moment. </p>
<p id="3kdMpK">Getting players with higher floors but high work ethics can still work out with someone like <span>Beal</span>. If everything works out, the Wizards could get back into the playoff hunt sooner than they otherwise could expect.</p>
<h2 id="ADCo4s">
<strong>They appear to be more confident in </strong><span><strong>Tomas Satoransky</strong></span><strong> as their starting point guard next year — for now.</strong>
</h2>
<p id="aXmcV4">Perhaps this point is a bit premature. But the Wizards did not fully address the point guard situation in the draft, even with <span>John Wall</span> likely to miss most or all of the 2019-20 season and <span>Tomas Satoransky</span> entering free agency. Yes, <a href="https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700421/2019-nba-draft-washington-wizards-justin-robinson-virginia-tech-undrafted-prospect">Justin Robinson is a point guard</a> and the Wizards signed him, but he’s probably playing more for the Go-Go than with the NBA team.</p>
<p id="MXfker">I’m not sure which free agent point guards Washington has lined up, but if things go awry with <span>Satoransky</span> and other free agents, they could have no suitable point guards for 2019-20, unless they plan on moving Beal to the position. That’s not the worst idea out there, but point guard also isn’t his natural role.</p>
<p id="muqa1q">At any rate, it appears that the Wizards are confident that they can re-sign Satoransky to a reasonable deal. Satoransky has adjusted quite well to Washington and knows he probably can’t be a starting point guard on most other teams, so perhaps they could keep the Czech national for a little while longer.</p>
https://www.bulletsforever.com/2019/6/21/18700351/2019-nba-draft-rui-hachimura-admiral-schofield-maturity-tommy-sheppard-tomas-satoransky-free-agencyAlbert Lee