Wiz of Awes
Fansided

Stock soaring for 2 Washington Wizards, while 2 are fading fast to begin 2023-24

By Cem Yolbulan

MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 03: Deni Avdija #8 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket against the Miami Heat in the third quarter during the NBA In-Season Tournament at Kaseya Center on November 03, 2023 in Miami, 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 Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - NOVEMBER 03: Deni Avdija #8 of the Washington Wizards drives to the basket against the Miami Heat in the third quarter during the NBA In-Season Tournament at Kaseya Center on November 03, 2023 in Miami, 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 Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images)
(Photo by G Fiume/Getty Images) /

Fading fast: Jordan Poole

Unlike Avdija and Gafford, a player who has failed to adapt to a larger role with the Washington Wizards is Jordan Poole.

Acquired by the Golden State Warriors this summer, Poole came to Washington with high expectations. He was supposed to be the primary option on the Wizards and revive his career after a down year with the Warriors last season, following Draymond Green’s infamous punch. That, unfortunately, hasn’t come to fruition.

Through six games, Poole is having the least efficient season of his career since his rookie year, with 54.2% True Shooting. His free-throw attempt rate is the lowest in his career. His numbers are down across the board, including points, rebounds, and assists per 100 possessions. This is even more concerning considering the fact that his usage rate and turnover rate remain exactly the same as last year. It’s not like he is making a difference on the defensive end either. When he is on the court, the Wizards allow 129.2 points per 100 possessions, even lower than the Wizards’ already all-time worst defensive rating.

For a player who was widely expected to be a candidate for the Most Improved Player award or All-Star consideration, a regression from his previous statistical baseline is disappointing. If he can’t turn this around and be the best player on this team, the Wizards might be stuck with his contract for a long time. This is one of the most important storylines to watch for Washington for the rest of the season.

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