Wizards Draft: G-League ignite standout could find his way to DC

As they free fall in the standings, the odds of the Washington Wizards receiving a high pick keep rising. They currently hold the seventh best odds for the number one overall pick and Victor Wembanyama. However, it’s still incredibly unlikely.

His recent rival for the G-League Ignite seems much more likely to fall to the Wizards as he is projected to go either second or third depending on the source and on the team selecting. That rival being the electric point guard Scoot Henderson.

Recent reports have said that team execs have been leaning more towards Brandon Miller from the University of Alabama. He is apparently viewed as a more unique pick. However, when it comes to fit with the current Wizards roster, none are better than Henderson.

What makes Scoot Henderson stand out in his loaded draft class.

While most are familiar with the high-flying phenomenon that is Scoot Henderson, many may have unfortunately missed out on the chance to watch him play.

Henderson is another uber athletic point guard who can beat any defense by just flying over it. Joining the class of Russell Westbrook, John Wall, Ja Morant, and Derrick Rose. He is shifty and can weave in and out of a defense just like these other big names.

The biggest difference is his potential as a shooter. Already at 19 years of age, Henderson has a soft touch and plenty of potential to grow as a shooter. Even if he’s only shot 27.3% from deep this season.

Compared to other players he is compared to, Westbrook has yet to develop a consistent jump shot, same with John Wall, Ja Morant didn’t develop one until last season, and Derrick Rose’s smooth jumper is still a relatively new development.

He is also far bulkier than other players of his archetype. He has plenty of muscle that makes him hard to push around in the post on either end of the floor. He is built like a tank and when combined with his quickness and verticality, it makes him a tough cover.

To really put the icing on the cake with his potential on offense, he has an incredibly high ceiling as a playmaker. While he left some teams and scout disappointed with his production as a passer (he averages 6.2 assists and 3.4 turnovers per game), many such as Kevin O’Connor still only had positive things to say about the young point guard in that aspect.

He is also an active defender, although just a little undersized. While he will be a target on defense, his intensity and willingness to put his body on the line for the team may help cover some of that up.

The only things keeping him from being the consensus number two overall pick is his shot selection, his mildly underwhelming development as a playmaker, and the stellar play of Brandon Miller.

How would he fit with the Washington Wizards?

The fit on offense is clear. He would be the primary ball handler for the team, setting up shooters like Bradley Beal, Corey Kispert, and Kyle Kuzma for open threes. He would also energize the team with his explosive play, getting the team excited and more engaged in the game.

The pick ‘n’ roll with Daniel Gafford in particular would be fun to watch as they both throw down powerful dunks every time they come near the bucket. The threat of being on a poster from either side of the basket may be enough to cause defenders to hesitate just enough to make a play happen.

His effort on defense would also be much appreciated on this team. The Wizards are not a team that typically dives for the ball outside of a few names on the roster. This is due to a long injury history for quite a few players on the team. This can leave a few loose 50/50 plays go in favor of opposing teams, causing turnovers or preventing them from forcing one.

Henderson is a player who will dive for the ball every time he has a chance at winning a possession. This will cause the number of steals to rise for the Wiz, especially for Delon Wright and Deni Avdija who poke the basketball away regularly.

Scoot Henderson is a dream come true for the Washington Wizards. He could be the face of the franchise going forward and the true replacement for John Wall that they have been looking for since trading him.