The Washington Wizards biggest fear struck following the bizarre showing in Alex Sarr's NBA Summer League debut.
With the Wizards horrendous track record of taking swing after swing in the NBA Draft, it seemed like Washington may have struck out once again with No. 2 overall pick Alex Sarr.
Following his slow start in summer league, the 7-footers rookie campaign shared the same concerns, if not more following his abysmal shooting from within the paint.
Struggling to do what most big men thrive at in the NBA, the level of concern was high for everyone outside of the Wizards building.
However, in Washington, nearly every member of the staff was extremely satisfied with what Sarr showed throughout his rookie season.
With the Wizards concern level minimal, many asked why?
Ahead of the team's return to play heading into preseason, general manager Will Dawkins' shared why he believed Alex Sarr would be fine, siting his defensive versatility as a unique skillset that would allow for him to be an impact player on a nighly basis.
The confidence that he'd eventually figure it out on the offensive end spoke volumes and through the start of the season, Sarr has proven that confidence to be warranted.
Averaging 16.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists, while shooting 49.8% from field goal range and 34.5% from beyond the arc, Sarr has proven to be more than capable or handling the responsibilities on the offensive side of the court.
Still, the French product's defensive versatility continues to be the most impressive part of his game.
Looking at this recent stat, it only proves why Sarr's defensive abilities standout the most.
Alex Sarr is in a group of his own
Sarr remains as the lone player in the NBA with more blocks (69) than personal fouls (59) on the season.
Between his defensive instincts, unreal wingspan and ability to float in the paint as a shot deterrer, the 20-year-old is an absolute force on the defensive end protecting the rim for the Wizards.
In fact, the big man is proving exactly why the Wizards have prioritized size and defensive abilities when they've selected prospects in the NBA Draft over the last few seasons.
Defense wins championships, even in today's current NBA, where offensive firepower has seemed to be taken over.
Offense can be developed, but defensive instincts are a natural ability.
Washington's ceiling is undeniably higher with Sarr in the team's future plans and this defensive stat shows exactly why his unique skillset puts him in the category of his own.