This is something often talked about w QBs. How do you problem solve when there's defenders around you? Can you need to adjust arm angles/find holes between players and still deliver accurate passes? I've already seen multiple examples of Sarr/Bub/Kyshawn doing so. Makes them more potent — especially impressive for Sarr, really raises his upside because of the potential it adds for him as a ball-handler in transition. Been surprisingly crafty/comfortable getting passes off despite defensive pressure. Evident in this play.
https://x.com/WashWizards/status/1855774362609369284
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You can see the raw talent with these guys, it’s exciting to see flashes like this.
Going forward when trying to figure out who Dawkins likes in the draft look for players who have prototypical size and who can pass/dribble/shoot. The Wizards clearly want to build a Celtics style offense full of guys who can initiate the offense over a more traditional offense of having one dominant ball handler
I really appreciate you pointing this out OP.
People get so hung up on Sarr’s individual scoring that they don’t appreciate his passing ability.
For instance, against the Hawks there was a play where he spun around a defender at half court, drove to the paint, then hit a euro step into a bounce pass to Bub who cut backdoor. Like, that’s our center doing this!
Having so many players on the court who can make plays at any moment stresses the defense so much. It’ll make scoring easier in the long run for the team. They’re still putting it together, but like you mentioned, the flashes are certainly there already.
I’m not that impressed by the pass but what I think is working well for the rookies (and Bilal) is that they all understand the assignment. They all understand when to pass and when to shoot and they’re aren’t scared or need to be told. Almost no rookie is perfect so of course they miss open guys or miss taking open shots (Hi Bilal!). But above all you can tell they are of one accord. I love that.
Is this reflective of winning basketball? Poor shooting, passing ability yet no real offensive set ups and lots of hesitation.