Washington Wizards: Rui Hachimura is poised for a big second year
The Wizards put Hachimura in difficult positions and he stepped up to the challenge
NBA rookies are not known for their defense. In fact, many NBA executives believe it is the defensive side of the ball that takes the longest for prospects to develop. Hachimura’s defense was not good by any metric last season but basketball is a team sport. Defense is much more susceptible to the influence of one’s teammates than offense is and the Wizards were simply the worst team on that end.
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The Wizards had the worst defensive rating in the entire league last season and as a result, Hachimura’s defensive ratings were incredibly poor. His poor defense should not be entirely excused because of his team’s poor showing but a rising tide lifts all ships. Better defense by one player makes everyone perform better. The Wizards won’t be challenging for the best defense in the league next season but with continued growth from Hachimura and additions in the offseason, the Wizards should be able to go from the worst to simply bad next season.
The Wizards’ lack of lineup continuity made for a difficult situation for a rookie to adjust to life in the NBA. The Wizards most utilized five-man lineup spent less than 180 total minutes on the court together. Chemistry takes reps and Hachimura through constant lineup changes, a mid-season groin injury, and a pandemic induced shut down had a rookie season that was as volatile as they come. Through it all, he was able to hold his own and earn a regular spot in the Wizards lineup.