Washington Wizards: 4 Players to Watch in the Sweet 16
By Ethan Smith
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If the Wizards want defense, then look no further than De’Andre Hunter.
In his first season as a starter for the Cavaliers, Hunter leads Virginia in scoring and is their second-leading rebounder, averaging 15.2 points and 5.0 rebounds per game.
His evolution as a shut-down defensive player, though, is what’s most intriguing about Hunter. Even if his offensive game never progresses (which is unlikely), he’ll still be a very serviceable 3-and-D wing on any NBA team. Oh yeah, Hunter also shoots over 44% from three.
Like Clarke, Hunter was also named as his conference’s Defensive Player of the Year. However, Hunter did it in the ACC. He went up against the likes of Zion Williamson and R.J. Barrett and Coby White all season long. The guy is a defensive stud.
Because of his defensive prowess and physical build, Hunter’s already getting compared to Kawhi Leonard. That’s quite the NBA comp. Leonard’s already had an illustrious career and his offensive game has come a long way since his time at San Diego State University. Expecting that type of career and production (3x All-Star, 2x All-NBA, 2x Defensive Player of the Year, Finals MVP) from Hunter might be a bit much.
The Wizards missed on Leonard when he was drafted in 2011 (they took Vesely 6th). If they have a chance at Hunter, they better not make the same mistake.