Wiz of Awes
Fansided

2023-24 Washington Wizards superlatives: Best scorer, defender and more

By Cem Yolbulan

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 24: Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards and Deni Avdija #9 talk with head coach Wes Unseld Jr. during the game against the New York Knicks at Capital One Arena on February 24, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 24: Kyle Kuzma #33 of the Washington Wizards and Deni Avdija #9 talk with head coach Wes Unseld Jr. during the game against the New York Knicks at Capital One Arena on February 24, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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 Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 7
Next
(Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images)
(Photo by Eric Espada/Getty Images) /

Best defender: Deni Avdija

The Washington Wizards are short on defense. They will almost certainly be one of the worst defenses in the league next year. There are just too many young, inexperienced players on the roster without a defensive anchor in the backline to cover their mistakes. Yet, that doesn’t mean there isn’t defensive talent on the team.

In fact, Deni Avdija has proven himself to be a consistently solid defender ever since he came into the league. His offensive game hasn’t progressed the way the Wizards fans and organization were hoping for, but Avdija’s defensive ability has been excellent throughout.

What makes Avdija’s defense even more impressive is the fact that he doesn’t have elite physical or athletic tools. He is not particularly long, quick, or athletic. He is just a smart player who plays hard and communicates well. He knows where to be, has quick hands, and great instincts. His ability to guard multiple positions, including smaller guards or bigger centers, provides valuable flexibility and versatility to the Wizards.

Avdija should continue to improve on the defensive end. He will be the go-to guy for the Wizards when it comes to defending opposing superstars. In the past years, Washington entrusted him with guarding the best offensive player on the other team, and this season shouldn’t be any different. And the way Avdija can move his feet, stay in front of people, and not get pushed around easily will continue making him one of the most underrated defenders in the league.

Home/Wizards News