The Washington Wizards have a lot riding on the development of former No. 2 overall Alex Sarr.
Up to this point of the season, the French product has taken a major step in the right direction following an inconsistent rookie season that flashed his defensive potential that was overlooked by his offensive shortcomings.
Averaging 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.3 blocks, while shooting 49.9% from field goal range and 35.5% from beyond the arc, Sarr has looked like the Wizards best player on the season.
Sarr's emergence has proven why Washington felt more than fortunate when he fell to them in the 2024 NBA Draft after Zaccharie Risacher was selected No. 1 overall, who now finds himself on the trade block after two underwhelming seasons in Atlanta.
The big man's sophomore leap has come as a response to the increased criticism following his rookie campaign and so far, he's done an excellent job at turning the narrative around about his potential in the DMV.
Between the veteran additions of CJ McCollum, Khris Middleton and even former No. 2 overall pick Marvin Bagley III, Sarr has used the mentorship to his advantage by asking questions and working endlessly to take his game to another level.
Outside of the veteran leaders in Washington, Sarr has several outlets to learn under courtesy to his French ties.
Rudy Gobert gives Alex Sarr advice
On Sunday, the Wizards returned to action against the Minnesota Timberwolves looking to add another impressive win to their recent stretch.
Unfortunately, Washington found themselved outmatched against the T-Wolves, falling to Minnesota at home 141-115.
Part of the reason the Wizards found themselves being steamrolled was due to the mismatch in the frontcourt with fellow Frenchmen Rudy Gobert outperforming Sarr by posting a monster double-double with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
Although the loss isn't what the Wizards hoped for, Sarr's matchup against Gobert was a good reminder for the team's young forward that although he possesses plenty of potential, there's still a long ways to go in his development.
Following the loss, Gobert went on record to give Sarr a piece of advice that could allow for him to become the versatile big man he hopes to be at the next level.
“He [Sarr] has all the talent and all the skills,I think it’s just his body," Gobert said postgame. "Keep working on your body, keep getting stronger. As a seven-footer, being someone who’s very long, your game is very high-impact”
Considering Gobert's body of work across his time in Utah and Minnesota, it's safe to say that Sarr should listen closely to the star center's advice, especially considering his similar frame and his ability to be a force for the majority of his career up to this point.