Washington Wizards: 3 bold predictions for 2018-19 NBA season

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 10: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards jumpball between Stanley Johnson #7 of the Detroit Pistons during a pre-season game on October 10, 2018 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 10: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards jumpball between Stanley Johnson #7 of the Detroit Pistons during a pre-season game on October 10, 2018 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images
Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images /

3. Tomas Satoransky will be a Sixth Man of the Year candidate

Tomas Satoransky didn’t get much of a fair shake in the playoffs. He’s a versatile player on the floor at 6’7″ and entering his third season, he looks to emerge as a playmaker in the backcourt in 2018-19.

His teammates speak of his willingness to make the extra pass as a playmaker. After all, Satoransky did put up 5.4 assists per game in 30 appearances as a starter last season. He also produced 10.4 points and 4.4 rebounds per game while shooting 50.8 percent from behind the arc in those appearances.

With a different rotation on the bench this season, he can be used in a number of ways, which works ultimately in his favor. Austin Rivers and Satoransky can both act as primary ball-handlers or they can get open off the ball. Given that dynamic, Satoransky has something to prove in 2018-19.

Playing with the Czech Republic national team in the offseason and securing a World Cup berth is a good boost to his confidence. Look for his play to turn heads this upcoming season and possibly earn himself some Sixth Man of the Year recognition in the process.