Washington Wizards: How did Rui Hachmiura’s first NBA game compare to the other rookies?
By Max Rayman
PJ Washington
27 points. Four rebounds. One assist. One steal. One block. 9-17 fg, 7-11 3pt
PJ Washington started off his career with a bang. He exploded for 27 points, four rebounds, one assist, one steal, and a block. He shot nine of 17 from the field and seven of eleven from three. His seven three’s set a rookie record for most threes in a debut. Washington, who played for Kentucky, was drafted number 12 overall by the Charlotte Hornets.
Washington led the Hornets in scoring (27) as they upset the Chicago Bulls in a 126-125 thriller. Despite hurting the Bulls from behind the arc, Washington just recently developed a three-point shot. Washington’s three-point evolved from his freshman to sophomore year. In his first year at Kentucky, he shot 23.8 percent from deep. In his sophomore year, he drastically improved as he shot 43.2 percent from three. His range from deep adds an extra dimension to his game as he can stretch the floor. The Hornets are one of the worst teams in the year but found themselves a great piece to build around.