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Washington Wizards: Tomas Satoransky has critical year ahead of him

By Ben Vasconcellos

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 25: Tomas Satoransky #31 of the Washington Wizards dunks against the New York Knicks during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 25, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 25: Tomas Satoransky #31 of the Washington Wizards dunks against the New York Knicks during the second half at Capital One Arena on March 25, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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Last season, Tomas Satoransky showcased why he’s a crucial piece to the Washington Wizards.

Washington Wizards guard Tomas Satoransky emerged onto the scene last season. John Wall went down with a knee injury and Satoranksky stepped up to filled the void. This upcoming third season will be an important one in shaping his future.

His rookie season wasn’t something to talk about, but his numbers from last year are intriguing. He definitely bolstered his career statistics after last season.

Career Stats:  5.2 PTS, 2.4TRB, 2.9 AST | .493 FG%, .406 FG3%, .760 FT%

2017-18 Stats: 7.2 PTS, 3.2 TRB, 3.9 AST | .523 FG%, .465 FG3%, .781 FT%

Satoransky was at the end of the bench to start the season. Originally he was the third point guard on the roster, but surpassed Tim Frazier. Then he was inserted into the starting line-up when Wall got injured. From here, Satoransky surprised everyone.

Standing 6’7, Satoransky brought a versatility to the position that no one expected. He created, distributed, and got everyone on the floor involved in the game. In a way, you could say that that he provided leadership that was lacking at the time.

Satoransky has shown promise, but it could be difficult to get minutes in certain games due to the addition of Austin Rivers. Even though Satoransky is more of a true point guard, Rivers offers more from a talent aspect.

Satoransky has the ability play shooting guard or small forward, but is more comfortable with the ball in his hands. It makes the most sense for the Wizards to use him at the point-forward position when he’s in the game.

Satoransky has the intangibles, but he needs to improve his on-ball defense and creating his own shot. He also needs to be more aggressive in all facets of his game. Satoransky needs to realize that now is the time to showcase his skill-set.

Free agency is right around the corner and Satoransky is entering the final year of his contract. In turn, this means that he’s got to perform at a high level. Most players want the opportunity to shine when it’s a contract year. If he produces this season he could be in for a big payday next summer.

This is one of the deepest rosters the Wizards have had in the past decade. It could put Satoransky in a tough spot at times in seeing the floor. Yes, there will be some hurdles to overcome, but as long as he continues to be determined and constantly improving then he should have no problem being involved in the offense.

More. Washington Wizards: 3 takeaways from preseason win over Knicks. light

The glimpses he showed last year make him an captivating player to watch this coming season. Competition can bring out the best in people and perhaps it will in Satoransky. A fruitful year is around the corner for the dynamic guard. Unfortunately for the Wizards, it will most likely result in Sanatoransky leaving in free agency to accept his well earned pay day.

Projected Stat Line: 10.1 PTS, 4.5 TRB, 5.0 AST | 50.1 FG%, 41.2 FG3%, 76.0FT%

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