Ahead of Wednesday night's 119-109 loss to the Orlando Magic at the Capital One Arena, the Washington Wizards announced the team recalled guard R.J. Hampton from the Capital City Go-Go, Washington's G League affiliate. The announcement came just a few days after the club had agreed to terms on a 10-day contract with Hampton.
Official: The Wizards have recalled R.J. Hampton from the @CapitalCityGoGo.
— Wizards PR Stats (@WizPRStats) March 6, 2024
The 23-year-old's 10-day contract is worth $120,250 and will allow him the chance to find opportunity in the District, a place with plenty of opportunity to go around. Before landing with the Wizards, Hampton had been on a two-way contract with the Miami Heat, logging 76 minutes in eight games with the South Beach club. On February 9th, the Heat waived Hampton, opening the door for the Wizards to snag the 6'4" combo guard.
How R.J. Hampton can help the Washington Wizards' chances
Hampton's signing fills the Wizards' previously vacant 15th roster spot as the team takes a flyer on the former 24th overall pick. In his second game with the Go-Go, Hampton came off the bench and knocked down each of his first five shot attempts, racking up 13 points by the end of the first quarter. The efficient shooting persisted throughout the game for Hampton, who finished with 30 points and four made baskets from beyond the arc.
30 points off the bench 🤯
— Capital City Go-Go (@CapitalCityGoGo) March 5, 2024
RJ for Player of the Game@AlibabaGroup | #BeatOfDC pic.twitter.com/9rGwX1voqi
In eight appearances with Capital City, Hampton has averaged 15.4 points in 23.1 minutes per game, shooting a staggering 48.1 percent from three-point range. He is eligible for a second 10-day contract after his first one expires if the Wizards are interested in extending the offer. However, if Washington chooses not to extend Hampton's contract, the Go-Go hold his G League rights, meaning he would likely remain affiliated with the Wizards.
With Washington's starting point guard Tyus Jones set to reach unrestricted free agency this summer, it is key for the Wizards to explore their options in case they find themselves on the short end of Jones' asking price. The eight-year NBA veteran's cap figure ranks third-highest among players on the Wizards roster this season.
With the Wizards well out of playoff contention, coach Brian Keefe and the front office will likely look to gain a better understanding of the talent the team has and what they are capable of at the NBA level. Hampton's recall from Capital City is a clear sign of what lies ahead for Washington in the final weeks of the regular season.