Wiz of Awes
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4 most underrated players on the Washington Wizards

By Cem Yolbulan

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 30: (Left to right) Delon Wright #55, Rui Hachimura #8, Deni Avdija #9, and Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards walk off the court during a timeout in the first half of a game against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center on December 30, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. 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 Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
ORLANDO, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 30: (Left to right) Delon Wright #55, Rui Hachimura #8, Deni Avdija #9, and Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards walk off the court during a timeout in the first half of a game against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center on December 30, 2022 in Orlando, Florida. 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 Julio Aguilar/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /

No. 1: Corey Kispert

A much more complete offensive player than he is given credit for, Corey Kispert is regularly pigeonholed as a shooter in NBA discussions. Even though it’s true that he is one of the most elite sharpshooters in the league -hitting over 42% of his threes last season-, he is also an extremely efficient scorer in general. He is a savvy off-ball cutter and a skilled finisher, making 64% of his two-pointer attempts. This part of his game is consistently underappreciated.

Yes, Kispert is a weak defender with physical and athletic shortcomings. He would likely have a more limited role on a team with championship aspirations. However, he is still a 25-year-old starter with an elite offensive upside. On a team that prioritizes 3-point volume, he can have a much bigger offensive role. He should easily be getting up more than 5.2 three-pointers per game.

Moreover, Kispert has been playing on a team that is completely bereft of shooting and playmaking. He is usually the lone floor-spacer on most lineups, and the Wizards haven’t had great point guard play in the two seasons Kispert has been in the league. He has been one of the most efficient players in the league despite not playing in an ideal ecosystem. He could look much better next to elite floor generals and more dynamic offensive weapons. It’s not clear when the Wizards will be able to surround Kispert with that, but if it happens, expect a major leap from the former Gonzaga standout.

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