No. 4 – Moritz Wagner
Moritz Wagner was given a chance, and he’s run away with it! Scott Brooks decided to give the starting center spot to Wagner a few weeks ago, and Wagner hasn’t looked back. In 12 games as the starter, Wagner is averaging 8.6 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 1.4 APG, and 1.2 SPG. He isn’t the most skilled big-man but his passion, intensity, toughness, and spirit are invaluable to the Wizards’ starting unit. Those traits pair quite well alongside Russell Westbrook on the starting unit, and the two have developed decent chemistry already.
Every single second that Wagner is on the floor, he gives it his all and his tenacity is unmatched. Whether he’s drawing charges, chasing down loose balls, or rolling hard off of screens, Wagner is willing to do the little things that lead to winning basketball. One thing you’ll never have to question from him is effort. He plays hard from the opening tip until the final whistle.
Oftentimes though, Wagner’s non-stop motor and persistent energy does get him into trouble. He averages 2.4 fouls per game in only 14.7 minutes (6.0 fouls per 36 minutes), so he has the tendency to be overaggressive and pick up cheap fouls. Wagner will be fine once he starts to understand that he doesn’t have to make a game-altering play every single possession. He has to stay out of foul trouble because Washington needs him on the court. The Wizards have gone 8-4 since inserting Wagner into the starting lineup 12 games ago so it’s obvious how important he is to their success.