By Will Peralta
Photo By Will Peralta
The 2024-2025 NBA season has been a mixed bag for the Washington Wizards, with a record that doesn’t quite reflect their potential. However, amidst the ups and downs, a promising young core has begun to emerge, capturing the attention of fans, analysts, and even opposing players.
At the forefront of this youthful movement is Alex Sarr, the 19-year-old rookie who has been making waves in the league. Despite initial doubts about his readiness for the NBA, Sarr has silenced critics with his impressive play, earning him the Rookie of the Month award.
Sarr’s stats are a testament to his rapid growth: he’s averaging 12.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, while shooting 55.6% from the field. His athleticism, combined with his developing skills, has made him a formidable presence on the court.
But Sarr isn’t the only young Wizard making a name for himself. Bub, Kyshawn, and Bilal have all been stepping up their game, showcasing their potential as key contributors to the team’s future success.
In a recent matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards, one of the league’s top young players, took notice of the Wizards’ young core. “They’re good, man. They’re young,” Edwards said. “I didn’t know the Sarr kid is 19… they got a good young core.”
Edwards’ praise is a nod to the Wizards’ promising future. While their current record may not reflect it, the team’s young players are gaining valuable experience and developing their skills at a rapid pace.
Analytics also support the notion that the Wizards are building something special. According to data from NBA.com, the Wizards’ young core has been outperforming expectations in several key areas, including:
• Defensive efficiency: The Wizards’ defense has been improving steadily, with their young players contributing to a top-10 defensive efficiency rating in the league.
• Rebounding: The team’s young big men, led by Sarr, have been dominant on the glass, grabbing rebounds at a rate that ranks among the top 5 in the league.
• Scoring: The Wizards’ young players have been contributing to the team’s scoring efforts, with several players averaging double-digit points per game.
While the Wizards’ current record may not be where they want it to be, the emergence of their young core provides a sense of optimism for the future. With Sarr, Bub, Kyshawn, Bilal, and others leading the charge, the Wizards are building a foundation for success that could pay dividends for years to come.
As the season progresses, keep an eye on the Wizards’ young core. They may not be contenders just yet, but they’re certainly worth watching. The future is bright in Washington, and it’s only a matter of time before the Wizards become a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.