The Washington Wizards have been a team closely monitored as the NBA Draft looms.
With less than three days until draft day, all eyes are on Washington, especially after the recent rumors that the Wizards could be eyeing a trade to get into the top five.
Washington landed just outside the top five in the NBA Draft Lottery in May. It was clear that if general manager Will Dawkins wanted to land a top three prospect in the NBA Draft, he may have to make a bold trade up to get the job done.
One name in particular that has drawn plenty of interest since the NBA Combine is VJ Edgecombe,
Edgecombe was a standout at Baylor during his lone season with the Bears, averaging 15 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists, while shooting 43.6% from the field and 34% from three.
The guard has everything a team is looking for at the next level to develop into a star player. Between his 6-foot-5 frame and freakish athleticism, the Bahamas native's talent mixed with his measurements at the combine make him an intriguing prospect.
However, this viral video resurfacing around social media shows exactly why the Wizards and other teams around the league are so high on Edgecombe's potential at the next level.
VJ Edgecombe showcased impressive confidence, maturity, and competitiveness during the Olympic Qualifiers with the Bahamas Senior National Team. His quick-twitch athleticism, aggressive defense, evolving offense, and relentless approach make him a disruptive force on both ends. pic.twitter.com/9uXEqSRqwl
— Jacob Myers (@League_Him) July 9, 2024
The video itself shows of impressive highlights from the guard, but what may be the most eye opening to me is just how impactful he can be with the increased room on the court during his run with the Bahamas Senior National Team.
As many know, the court difference between collegiate basketball and the NBA is much different. NBA courts are much wider and allow for players to have more room to operate which alone brings out the best in players.
Looking at athletes such as Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics who has gone on record multiple times to speak on how the wider playing court in the league opened up his game, it gives plenty of promise for what a player like Edgecombe could develop into when he makes the jump.
Looking at his play during the Olympic Qualifier, Edgecombe's explosiveness on offense and his playmaking stand out.
If the Wizards were to make a move into the top five or even the top three with Edgecombe in mind, it would be easy to see why.
With the draft looming, the first answer to our offseason questions will be answered largely depending on what the Wizards do with their top pick.