The Washington Wizards young roster is filled with talented names, but one player in specific has plenty of expectations to fulfill.
Reigning No. 6 overall pick Tre Johnson entered the league with all eyes on him following his standout season at Texas as a freshman.
As a fast riser through the NBA process, many believed that the explosive offensive scorer could quickly become one of the best young talents in the league, especially if he landed in a place that allowed for his skillset to be put on display from day one.
When Johnson fell outside of the top five to the Wizards, the overwhelming thoughts about his fit in DMV immediately opened up conversations about the possibility that the guard could make a realistic run at the NBA Rookie of the Year Award.
Considering the previous narratives about the Wizards and their developmental struggles, the fact that Washington was deemed as a perfect fit for a young player caught many by surprise.
Nonetheless, with what President of Monumental Basketball and general manager Will Dawkins are building in D.C., the tables have officially turned as Washington continues to be a preferred landing spot for plenty of talented players; just ask Alex Sarr and Trae Young.
Johnson's start to his rookie season started off slow and majority of the reason is due to the guard trying to find out how he fit in Brian Keefe's system.
Coming off the bench was certainly new for the playmaker and learning when to be aggressive on the offensive end was a challenge, especially while he dealt with early injuries.
Fortunately, as the guard has continued to grow comfortable in Washington's offense, his confidence has emerged and he's beginning to validate exactly why the Wizards believe he can be a long-term answer to build around.
Tre Johnson's recent stretch validates Wizards' belief
Over the Wizards recent stretch, Johnson has taken his game to another level truly emerging as a constant presence on offense.
Averaging 21.0 points, 3.7 assists and 2.3 rebounds, while shooting 44.9% from field goal range and 44.4% from beyond the arc over the last three games, Johnson looks like the real deal.
The guard has been inserted in the starting lineup as of late and that move by head coach Brian Keefe seems like a decision that won;'t change any time soon.
Johnson has real upside to be a franchise player and with the chance to prove that on a national stage during the NBA Rising Stars game, the hype is only gaining momentum.