Wiz of Awes
Fansided

Wizards: This surprise preseason standout may have earned himself a rotation role

By Cem Yolbulan

WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 10: Eugene Omoruyi #97 of the Washington Wizards is fouled by Bul Kuol #42 of the Cairns Taipans during the second half of a preseason game at Capital One Arena on October 10, 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 10: Eugene Omoruyi #97 of the Washington Wizards is fouled by Bul Kuol #42 of the Cairns Taipans during the second half of a preseason game at Capital One Arena on October 10, 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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The Washington Wizards are yet to make their final roster decisions as they need to cut their roster from 17 guaranteed contracts to 15 before the start of the regular season. The preseason games are an excellent way to get more information before making these decisions as individual performances can change the depth chart. One such performance has come from the Wizards’ two-way player Eugene Omoruyi.

The 26-year-old Canadian forward has impressed in his two appearances so far. Despite playing 24 total minutes, he managed to average 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 2.5 steals per game. His non-box score impact has been even more impressive.

Omoruyi provides much-needed size, strength, and intensity to the Wizards. He is listed at 6’7 but he plays bigger than that thanks to his strong build. He doesn’t get pushed around, can guard multiple positions, and stays in front of attacking players while playing with energy, discipline, and effort.

In both preseason games, his presence on the court in the fourth quarter allowed the Wizards to go on big runs. In last night’s game, he was a major part of the 16-0 run late in the game to seal the victory for Washington. Therefore it’s no coincidence that the Wizards are +33 with Omoruyi on the court, one of the best +/- impacts on the team.

Not only does Omoruyi fill a need with his size and strength, but he also plays the right way. Energy, hustle, and effort can be infectious on a basketball team. The way Omoruyi plays increases the intensity on the court, helping the Wizards play harder as a team. This alone is a great reason to give Omoruyi a small role throughout the season.

As a two-way player, Omoruyi has to spend a lot of time with the Wizards G League affiliate the Capital City Go-Go. However, the Wizards can choose to convert him to a standard contract, depending on how the final roster spots shake out. Even if he spends half of his time in the G League, Omoruyi will be an excellent energy guy off the bench and locker room presence the entire season.

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