Whether it was due to coaching, Tre Johnson himself, or a combination of the two, Tre Johnson didn’t have a great rookie season.
Becoming just one of three players picked in the top 10 who failed to make an All-Rookie team this past season, Johnson, who was projected to be an instant offensive player coming out of Texas, showed growing pains that left many underwhelmed.
With the projected starting five next season being Trae Young, the No. 1 Pick, Kyshawn George, Anthony Davis, and Alex Sarr, this could be looked at as another damning sign for the 20-year-old guard.
However, I think the 2026-27 season for Johnson could be an opportunity to establish himself in a crucial role for any team looking to seriously contend.
Being a great sixth man.
Tre’s profile fits the sixth man archetype that the award is based on
From Tre’s ability to score all over the floor, whether that be on the perimeter as a catch-and-shoot player, or on his own getting a basket, Tre could immediately step into a role as a score-first impact player that could lead the Wizards' second unit.
This role for Tre would not have to be permanent, either. This could be akin to Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro’s early-career role, where, in his third year, he won the Sixth Man of the Year award, averaging 20.7 points for a Heat team that won 53 games and finished first in the Eastern Conference in 2022.
Now, Herro is a consistent starter and an All-Star for the Heat, and the same path could be achievable for Johnson.
Patience is key for Tre Johnson in this role
Despite Tre Johnson’s skill being similar to that of past winners like the aforementioned Herro, Jordan Clarkson, Eric Gordon, and legends of the award like Jamal Crawford and Lou Williams, Wizards brass and fans alike should give Tre time before expecting that kind of production.
While this means don’t expect 17-20 points a night from him in this role off the bat, I think the most integral part of this process is for Coach Brian Keefe to not jerk around Tre’s minutes if he isn’t thriving at a high level in the role quickly.
Show the former 6th overall pick that you trust him night to night to be counted on as the anchor of your 2nd unit, and if given the appropriate amount of time and leeway, watch him shine.
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