Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Sixth Man of the Year
Adding big men, especially after last year’s lack of depth, was key for Grunfeld’s offseason.
He managed to screw things up by adding too many big men, but nonetheless, he added a few that were capable of contributing in areas that Washington was lacking.
Kris Humphries replaced what Trevor Booker did last year. He rebounded, knocked down the mid-range jumper, and played defense.
Humphries became more well-known for his life off the court than his play on the court, but he’s been a solid big man in the NBA for quite some time. His ability to knock down the 15-18 foot jump shot made him a perfect fit along side Wall and Prof. Andre Miller.
Unfortunately, Humphries wasn’t able to stay healthy at the end of the season. After becoming the team’s secret weapon, the Washington Wizards had to look for another big man to step up.
That’s when Drew Gooden started balling out of his mind.
Right when you think his time in the NBA is over, Gooden has an out-of-body experience and destroys the opposing defense with mid-range jumpers and Gooden tip-ins.
I’ve made this comparison before, but Gooden is basically Brian Cook on PEDs.
Gooden has become the ultimate “No, no, no no, YES!” player. Every time he shoots the ball, it’s either going to be a hard brick or beautiful make. He also compared himself to Stephen Curry and Dennis Rodman, so there’s that.
He earned another veteran’s minimum contract last year and it looks like he’s on his way to sticking around in the nation’s capital. Gooden has taken Humphries’ minutes in the playoffs, too.
Given his play in the first half of the season, we have to recognize Kris Humphries. Right now, though, Drew Gooden is playing some of the best basketball of his career off the bench.
Winner(s): Kris Humphries and Drew Gooden
Next: Defensive Player of the Year