With the training camp and preseason underway, this is the time fanbases start dreaming about the development of their players and who is going to look improved to start the new season. The Washington Wizards fans are no different. Fortunately for them, Corey Kispert looks like he can be that guy for them this season.
Coach Wes Unseld Jr. had already identified Kispert as a candidate to take a big leap. That was followed by JJ Redick endorsing Kispert’s game. This has already increased the expectations from Kispert coming into training camp. However, the most encouraging of all was the way he evaluated his own game and identified the areas of improvement in the Media Day.
Corey Kispert willingly self-critical knowing his defense must improve
— Hoop District (@Hoop_District) October 4, 2023
“There were times last year where I get subbed in and out of games at the end for offense, defense, and free throws and that just can’t happen this year if I want to be the player I want to be in this league” pic.twitter.com/bLOOe67J34
Kispert took a huge step forward last season in terms of his shooting percentages and efficiency. He proved himself to be one of the best shooters in the league. Furthermore, his off-ball play, cutting, and finishing improved significantly. He became a well-rounded offensive weapon. However, Kispert pointed out more ways to improve, even on the offensive end.
He said he was unhappy with just doing “cardio” and running to the corner at every offensive possession. He wants to be more involved and more confident. This could mean that he will get more on-ball reps and will take more off-the-dribble shots. This could help unlock another level of offense for Kispert and the Wizards.
The most critical aspect of Kispert’s evaluation of his own game was on the defensive end. This is understandable as the Gonzaga product didn’t seem thrilled about being subbed out last season for defensive possessions. The 24-year-old saying, “That just can’t happen this year” suggests that he doesn’t want to be known as a one-way player with a specific role. He wants to be a more all-around player who can play both ends of the floor. Kispert owning up to his shortcomings and wanting to become a different type of player is certainly encouraging for the Washington Wizards.
However, becoming a two-way player is easier said than done, especially for a player with the physical and athletic limitations of Kispert. His short wingspan and lack of lateral quickness and athleticism will limit his defensive upside. Yet, there are strides he can take.
Kispert has been bad to awful in his career so far defensively. If he can get it to a respectable level where he can stay on the court in the fourth quarter and isn’t hunted by the opposing offense would be an excellent start. Fortunately for the Wizards, he seems to know that and is willing to work on it. That’s all you can ask from a player.
Wizards decisionmakers are right to preach patience in press conference
The Washington Wizards team president and GM asked for patience to execute their vision in a press conference. They deserve all of it.