NBA Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

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WASHINGTON, DC – APRIL 07: Johnny Davis #1 of the Washington Wizards looks on during a NBA basketball game against the Miami Heat at Capital One Arena on April 07, 2023 in Washington, DC. 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. (Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images) /

10. Washington Wizards – Johnny Davis, Wisconsin

Johnny Davis had a lot of supporters in the predraft process, teams and analysts that believed in his shot-making, playmaking and defense after a standout college season. There were legitimate reasons to explain away the red flags, from a lack of efficiency late in his college season (dealing with injuries) to subpar efficiency (he was crafty enough to gain separation). The Washington Wizards didn’t look out of place taking him 10th.

Then Summer League happened, and Davis looked terrible. He couldn’t find enough space to even get shots up, and when he did they didn’t come close to going in. The season wasn’t any better, as Davis didn’t look the part of an NBA player except for a small handful of games during the year. He was even mediocre in the G League! It was about as terrible as a rookie season as a top-10 pick could have.

It gets much worse when you factor in the opportunity cost. Jalen Williams went just two picks later, and would be the foundational piece to a Washington rebuild right now. Instead, Davis will need to show significant strides in his second season just to have his fourth-year option picked up. Sorry to spoil the rest of the rankings, but this is the worst grade of the bunch.

Grade: F

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