Wizards plan on exploring skill that could make Alex Sarr a superstar

The Washington Wizards were ecstatic to select Alex Sarr with the second overall pick in the 2024 draft. He played professionally in Australia last season after spending time with Overtime Elite. Sarr is a special talent and immediately became one of the Wizards' building blocks.

Washington is in the middle of a total rebuild. They got three first-round picks this year, and Sarr is not the only one with star potential. The Wizards will keep adding talent, but they may never get a selection higher than Sarr. The seven-footer is a key piece of their future, and Washington needs him to blossom into a star.

Head coach Brian Keefe discussed his three rookies and their development plan with the Monumental Sports Network. In the conversation, he shared the skills that make Sarr special and how they plan to explore this one in hopes of unlocking his superstar potential.

Alex Sarr’s passing and playmaking could make him a superstar

The 19-year-old is a special talent. His defense jumps off the screen as a seven-footer capable of protecting the rim and guarding multiple players. Sarr will make an immediate defensive impact, but fans saw offensive struggles in summer league. The Wizards certainly are not worried.

Coach Keefe said this about Sarr’s offensive game and where they plan to explore in year one.

"He’s got the ability to be a three-level scorer at some point, but one thing that has stood out to us is his ability to see the game and read the game. He’s a good passer, so we want the ball in his hands to explore those opportunities for him to make plays for himself and others."

Having a seven-footer playmaker is a massive advantage in the NBA. Sarr averaged 1.0 assist in 18.0 minutes per game last season as a reserve for Perth in the NBL. There were certainly flashes, and the Wizards want to see if he can improve in this area. Remember, Sarr is only 19 years old and nowhere near his prime.

Only 22 players averaged more than 5.0 assists per game last season. The seven-footers on that list were Nikola Jokic and Joel Embiid. Going down to four assists each night and setting the bar to 6’10 or taller, Franz Wagner, Paolo Banchero, and Anthony Davis join the list. Those are all current or future stars. If Sarr can blossom in this area, he could quickly join that group.

Having a playmaking center is a massive advantage. It would be a crucial piece for the Wizards as they look to exit their rebuild and return to contention. Alex Sarr has the potential, and head coach Brain Keefe is ready to explore what the seven-footer can do with the ball in his hands.

The Washington Wizards won’t win many games in the 2024-25 season, but there will be plenty of development. Alex Sarr hopes to make an immediate impact and fans will certainly be watching closely. Keep an eye on his playmaking, and stay tuned for all the latest.