WASHINGTON — Initially, ⁣there was elation.

Then came hope.

Next, panic ensued.

And now, relief has ‍settled in.

This emotional rollercoaster is what Washington Wizards fans have experienced while watching⁢ 19-year-old rookie Alex Sarr from a distance, ⁢even before he has participated⁢ in a‍ regular-season NBA game.

In May, the fanbase felt a wave of ⁣joy when the Wizards secured the second overall⁣ pick in the ‌yearly draft lottery. By June, ‌optimism⁢ soared as ​the team chose Sarr with that selection, with some analysts considering him the leading prospect in the 2024 draft class. However, after an encouraging debut in Washington’s​ summer-league opener in July, ‌excitement turned to panic when Sarr missed all 15 of his shots during another exhibition game—a performance deemed by some in the​ blogosphere as a “historically terrible shooting night” ⁣and labeled “the worst NBA Summer League game ever,” among⁢ other hyperbolic criticisms. In the Wizards’ preseason opener on Sunday, however, ⁣Sarr rebounded strongly, scoring 15 efficient points, grabbing three rebounds, and blocking one shot.

So,​ what is the most likely scenario⁢ for Sarr’s future? How ⁤will the⁢ towering French big‍ man perform this season and evolve over the coming years?

To provide insight into these queries and to ⁣kick off The Athletic’s annual series on the Wizards’ top prospects, I ⁢consulted talent ‍evaluators from⁢ rival NBA teams, ‍asking them to ⁤assess ​Sarr’s strengths and weaknesses.

The Athletic ⁢ ensures⁣ the anonymity of these talent evaluators‍ because NBA front offices rarely permit their scouts to speak ⁢publicly. Without this confidentiality, ​articles such as the one you are reading, which relay scouts’ evaluations, would not be possible. This ‌anonymity also ⁤enables scouts to express their opinions candidly, without fear of repercussions.

A recurring theme from ⁤my discussions with the scouts regarding Sarr is that his potential will‍ take time to fully develop. As Scout A stated, “I don’t want​ to label him strictly as a ​‘project,’ but he’s certainly a developmental player.”

What makes Sarr’s situation even more‍ intriguing is the context of the 2024 NBA Draft itself. Although the draft was perceived to have solid depth throughout the first round, it was acknowledged that few,‌ if any, prospects were considered ⁣franchise-altering​ at the ‍very top. While The Athletic predicted the ​2023 draft would‍ provide up to five players viewed as having⁢ at least the potential for All-Star caliber — namely, Victor Wembanyama, Scoot Henderson, Cam Whitmore, Brandon Miller, and Amen Thompson — none of the ‌prospects in 2024 ranked higher than a “high-leverage starter,” according to the same evaluation framework. ⁤Sarr topped that draft board, but this ranking might be perceived as⁣ mild praise, especially given the low-ceiling expectations for the top talents.

The most positive evaluation of⁢ Sarr’s future came from Scout B, whose assessment aligns with the views of the Wizards’ front office ​and their ‍coach, Brian ​Keefe.⁣ It is Sarr’s defensive capabilities that set​ him apart.</

He recorded ​a ​height of 6 feet 11 3/4 inches without shoes during May’s NBA ⁢Draft Combine, complemented ​by a 7-foot-4​ 1/4 wingspan. ​While Zach Edey and Donovan Clingan, both of whom are also potential lottery picks in the ⁢2024 draft class, exceed Sarr in height and arm length, they ‌lack his⁣ speed and lateral agility.

“His mobility and motor are his‌ greatest ⁣assets; he’s capable​ of sprinting the floor and effectively switching to contain perimeter players while also being able to protect​ the rim,” Scout C stated.

This defensive potential captured ⁣the attention of the Wizards‌ throughout the draft process, and team officials‌ affirm that​ they see⁣ Sarr developing into a contemporary defensive big. He would be not only a reliable shot blocker and rim protector ‌but also someone who can‌ switch effectively onto perimeter players.

“Currently,” Keefe mentioned, “the primary focus for Alex is his defense. We believe he has⁣ the ⁤potential to become an⁢ elite,‌ versatile defender. ‍Therefore, our⁣ immediate goal is to ‍familiarize him with all the terminology and schemes we plan to implement while ensuring he maintains high energy.​ We’re⁣ confident he can become a significant ⁢defensive presence.”

How versatile do the ⁢Wizards believe Sarr is? Consider this: In their first two preseason games, Keefe has positioned him⁢ at power forward alongside center Jonas⁤ Valančiūnas and has shifted Sarr to the center position when⁢ Valančiūnas, Marvin Bagley ⁣III, or Richaun Holmes are off⁤ the court.

Sarr has already shown that, even in these‌ early stages of his career, he can competently switch on to forwards ⁣and wings on the​ perimeter. During Washington’s preseason‌ opener, both Toronto’s RJ Barrett and Jonathan Mogbo attempted to drive past Sarr⁢ but refrained from doing so.

The subsequent video clip showcases Sarr’s capability to⁢ accelerate ‍rapidly.‍ When Raptors guard Jamal Shead rejects a screen from teammate Kelly Olynyk and drives toward the basket against the Wizards’ Bub Carrington, Sarr, who was ‍originally defending Olynyk,⁢ assists ⁤Carrington by matching Shead’s pace stride for stride. With no clear path to​ the basket, Shead eventually returns the ball to Olynyk for⁢ an open three-pointer from the top of the‌ arc, a less-than-ideal shot to concede. Nonetheless, Sarr’s agility and⁣ foot speed were evident,⁣ highlighting a skill set that Washington’s defense can leverage in⁢ the⁣ future.

This play ​should not be underestimated. For⁤ a modern big, rim protection extends beyond merely being a shot-blocking threat; it ⁣also encompasses the ability to thwart drives before opponents reach the basket.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that Wizards coaches, ‌who meticulously analyze every piece of footage, recognized this particular sequence. When asked about Sarr’s acceleration and agility during ‍this moment, Keefe responded, “This is likely why we⁣ selected him. These are some of⁣ the‍ gifts ​he possesses, correct? This is precisely why we constantly emphasize his defensive versatility, as he is capable of guarding perimeter players ⁤while still​ being able to play down ‌low​ and protect the rim against other bigs.”

“He has much to learn. There is still a long way ahead of him. These first few steps⁣ are​ crucial, and we will continue to focus on these areas,” he added.

Scouts had varying opinions on Sarr’s ability to guard smaller ​players on the perimeter.

“Can he hold his ground for a few seconds ⁤at the end of the⁢ shot ‌clock? Yes,” said Scout D. “That’s the crux of the‍ matter. I‍ don’t think you“`html

His feet are impressive, and it’s clear that he possesses an expansive wingspan, allowing him to challenge several shots from guards.

Scout B expressed a more positive outlook regarding ​Sarr’s defensive versatility, especially in various ​pick-and-roll scenarios.

“For bigs to be effective, they must exhibit defensive versatility, which entails the capacity to ⁤engage in multiple schemes during⁣ pick-and-roll situations,” noted Scout B. “He doesn’t have to ⁢solely drop back to safeguard him; he can⁣ blitz a pick-and-roll, switch, or drop back. … I believe his defensive potential is ​immense. He truly has the capability to anchor one of the top seven defenses in the league.”

Throughout 47 ⁢minutes in the preseason, Sarr managed to block⁤ four shots, showcasing ⁤his ability to cover ⁤ground in transition. In one game against the New York Knicks, he blocked a‍ layup attempt by Jalen Brunson, tracked down a transition layup attempt from OG Anunoby, and, in the⁣ following highlight reel, denied Karl-Anthony Towns on a drive to the basket.

It’s essential to remember that Sarr⁣ is considered a “developmental player.” Nevertheless, his height, ⁢length, ‍agility, and quick reflexes are vital foundational elements.

The necessity ⁢for patience is ​even more pronounced when evaluating his offensive⁣ skills, which remain unrefined. However, ‍he has displayed some ⁣encouraging potential as a stretch big. Although he converted only two out of 17 three-point attempts⁢ during the Las Vegas Summer League, his‍ shooting form seemed intact. This preseason, he has successfully made five out of ten ‌attempts from beyond‍ the arc. ‌While no​ one anticipates him maintaining a 50 percent shooting average from three, this early success indicates that his shot is not flawed. One contributing factor to Sarr’s recent improvement might​ be his enhanced physical condition‌ compared to​ his performance during the summer league.

“He exhibited glimpses of being a catch-and-shoot player” during previous experiences with Overtime Elite and the NBL’s Perth Wildcats, Scout C ​remarked, adding, “If his shooting improves, you ​may have a player capable of making over 100 three-pointers in a season ⁢and averaging ​two or three blocks ‍per game. That’s⁤ the hope.”

During the summer league, Sarr rarely showed any offensive power. When he had chances to roll off screens, he⁢ tended to opt for⁣ mid-range jumpers.

However, in the preseason opener, Sarr rolled and cut to the basket with strength, finishing the game with three dunks.

This is an aspect ‌of his game that⁤ both Sarr and his teammates should focus on exploiting.

“He‌ can catch and finish a lob,” Scout D explained.‌ “I know‌ everyone references the summer league game where he went 0 for 15. He’s far better than that, and I think the entire league recognizes that he’s ‍better. But he’s a shot blocker and a​ finisher.”

Sarr’s Weaknesses

Indeed, Sarr⁣ boasts ‌a rare combination of height, long arms, and agility.

However, at this point,⁤ his physique ⁤is​ too slender to endure the 82-game grind against the NBA’s toughest big ​men. In May, he weighed in ⁣at ⁢224 pounds, making him the lightest player at the combine who ‍measured at least 6-foot-10. For reference, Edey weighed 299 pounds, ‌while Clingan was at 282 pounds. Valančiūnas, one of the league’s ⁣most physical centers, stands at 7 feet ⁤and is listed at 270‍ pounds.

It’s typical for⁣ young“`html

He needs to become⁢ stronger and develop greater consistency as an offensive player, but ⁤that improvement ‌will come with time. In the NBA, the simplicity of the position may facilitate ​his progress. However, to validate the selection, he must excel⁤ defensively.

This perspective clarifies the Wizards’ rationale behind acquiring Valančiūnas through an offseason sign-and-trade.‍ Valančiūnas can​ effectively start ​at center, ‌defending against strong opponents like Steven Adams and Joel⁣ Embiid, ⁣while Sarr can take‌ on‌ the power forward position and face less physical players. Valančiūnas not only supports the Wizards’ front office in ‌safeguarding Sarr but also enables Sarr to gain valuable minutes early in his career. Additionally, Sarr can‍ serve as⁢ Valančiūnas’ backup at center.

“They’ve ​made some‍ strategic and subtle moves in recent months to position Alex Sarr‌ for‌ success,” remarked Scout ‌B. “I say ⁢this​ with​ complete respect, as I believe they are​ working to unlock his potential.‌ This largely pertains to ⁤Valančiūnas. If Sarr ⁤is partnered with someone like Valančiūnas,‍ who can shoot and‌ provide a physical presence, it will conserve Sarr’s energy and allow them to assign him defensively to anyone.”

The Wizards acknowledge that Sarr’s offensive capabilities are currently less developed than⁢ his defensive‍ skills.

During the preseason opener, there were several ​instances where passes from teammates slipped through Sarr’s hands. ‌An example follows when ⁤Carrington delivers an errant pass.

As noted by ‌John Hollinger of⁤ The Athletic regarding Sarr after⁣ the summer league, “His passing indicates potential as a short roller, but he must secure the ball first; this also ‌applies to his rebounding efforts,⁣ where contested grabs pose a significant⁣ challenge. In both scenarios, ⁢he often resembles a backup tight end⁤ trying to catch a‌ pass with his body.”

A more pressing issue ​observed during the summer‍ league was Sarr’s overall offensive mindset—and the role he was permitted⁢ to assume with the Wizards. Attempting wide-open 3-pointers with his feet set⁢ was beneficial, even if he missed. ​However, he frequently seemed to view himself as a ⁣playmaking point guard or shooting⁢ guard, trying to⁢ drive past defenders from ‍the perimeter. This approach was evident in ⁤a sequence from Washington’s summer-league opener.

Experimentation during the⁢ summer league is acceptable, especially as it helps young players⁢ identify their weaknesses and understand what strategies may not⁣ translate ⁣to the​ NBA. There’s no ‍harm in this; the exhibition scores ‌aren’t ⁣counted, and the events serve as teaching and learning opportunities.

Problems may arise if a young player persists in adopting⁢ a style ⁤that isn’t suitable for himself or his team. The most successful players capitalize on their strengths, ‌and Sarr’s current offensive focus⁣ should ​be on ⁢taking set​ 3-point shots, rolling towards the basket, and finishing lobs. The Wizards’ front office and coaching staff regularly emphasize “building habits,” and one of ⁢the ​key lessons for ‌a young player ⁤is‌ to stick to what he excels at, as efficiency⁢ benefits the team. Furthermore, it’s crucial to refine weaker areas through practice and offseason training. As Scout D said, just because a player can ⁤occasionally be effective driving to the​ hoop doesn’t justify repeated attempts if⁣ he is consistently stopped or likely to commit turnovers.

In the⁤ preseason thus far, Sarr has adhered to a more structured approach. Still, ‍this will be a ‍critical point ⁤to monitor as the regular‍ season unfolds, and‌ for Sarr to steer clear of unnecessary pitfalls.

Sarr’s Future</

However, Sarr adeptly tracks down Anunoby from⁣ behind⁣ and successfully blocks ​the shot.

The Wizards, currently in ​the initial phases of a rebuild, are ideally ⁢positioned‍ to​ finish ⁣this ⁢season with one of the league’s poorest records. This situation allows them to afford Sarr considerable playing time, enabling ⁤him to learn from his experiences. The presence of⁣ Valančiūnas on⁣ the team should provide Sarr with protection​ against the most challenging matchups.

In conversations with ​scouts,⁤ the comparison that arose most frequently was to center Dereck Lively II,‌ who was⁤ selected as‌ the 12th pick in the 2023 draft. ⁣He played a crucial ‍defensive​ role‍ and served as a lob threat for the Dallas Mavericks during their journey to the NBA Finals.

“If he ​evolves into⁣ a player like ⁢Dereck Lively,‍ that would ‌be a ‌success,” stated Scout D. “Particularly in a draft class such⁤ as this one, that would⁤ be a significant achievement.”

Scout C⁢ added: “The⁢ aim is for him ‌to develop into the⁢ type of player that Lively⁤ has become, characterized by being a lob⁤ threat,​ playing ‌with genuine energy, ⁣effectively rim-running, and ⁢not ‍just being a‍ rim protector defensively but also being capable of switching onto the perimeter and​ containing both guards and wings.”

Sarr’s objective over the next few years should be to surpass Lively and aim to become a ⁢cornerstone for a top-tier defense.

(Photo: Evan Bernstein / Getty Images)

From Euphoria to Uncertainty: The Rollercoaster Journey⁣ of Wizards Rookie ⁤Alex Sarr

The Rise of Alex Sarr

Alex Sarr, ‌the promising rookie⁢ for the ‍Washington ​Wizards, has quickly captured the attention of basketball fans and analysts alike. Known for his impressive performance during his pre-season debut, ​Sarr scored 15 points, showcasing his potential as a significant contributor to the team this season [[1](https://trashtalk.co/2024/10/07/pre-saison-nba-alex-sarr-a-assure-pour-sa-premiere-15-points-et-bilal-coulibaly-netait-pas-mal-non-plus/)]. His rapid rise to stardom, however, has ‌been ​nothing short of a rollercoaster ride filled with exhilarating highs and daunting lows.

Pre-Season Highlights

A Stellar Debut

• Performance ​Overview: In his first pre-season‌ game, Sarr demonstrated his skills with a remarkable 15-point⁢ performance, indicating his readiness to compete at the NBA level.
• Team Dynamics: Alongside⁣ fellow rookie Bilal Coulibaly, Sarr’s‍ presence ​on the court reflects a new wave of talent for the Wizards, which could reshape their‍ playing style moving forward.

Fan Reactions

The excitement among ⁤fans has been palpable,⁣ with social media buzzing about Sarr’s potential. His debut not only thrilled supporters but also raised expectations for ​his performance throughout the season.

The Challenges Ahead

Adjusting to the NBA

Transitioning from college or international play to the NBA is often fraught with challenges. For Sarr, adapting to the fast-paced game and the physicality of professional basketball will be crucial. ⁢Some of the areas he will⁤ need to focus on include:

• Physical Conditioning: The ‌demands of an NBA ​season require players to⁤ maintain ⁣peak physical condition‍ to⁢ handle back-to-back​ games and rigorous training.
• Defensive Skills: ​ Learning to defend against seasoned players will be key to his success; this includes improving his lateral movement‌ and understanding team defensive ⁢schemes.

Overcoming Expectations

With the euphoria surrounding his debut, Sarr faces the ⁢pressure of living up to the expectations set by fans and analysts. Managing⁣ performance anxiety and maintaining ⁣a​ level head will be vital as he navigates the ups and downs of ‍a rookie season.

Case Study: The Rookie Experience

Rookie ⁣Comparisons

Benefits⁤ of a Strong Support System

For rookies like Alex Sarr, having a solid support system is ⁢crucial for navigating the complexities of NBA life. Here are some benefits:

• Mentorship: ‍Experienced players can provide invaluable guidance, helping rookies⁤ develop​ their skills and adjust to the league’s demands.
• Team Culture: A positive team‌ environment⁣ fosters confidence and camaraderie, making it easier for rookies to integrate and perform.
• Fan Support: Engaged⁣ fan bases can motivate‌ players, creating a sense of accountability and inspiration to excel.

First-Hand Experience: Insights from Rookies

To gain further insight‌ into the challenges faced by ‌rookies, consider the words of a few veterans who once walked the same path:

“The transition is‍ tough; it’s not⁤ just about basketball, but‌ adapting to life off ​the ⁣court too. Stay focused and lean⁤ on your teammates.” -⁣ A ​seasoned NBA player.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Alex Sarr

As the ​season progresses, the trajectory of Alex Sarr’s career will depend on ⁣his ability to adapt​ and ​grow within the team. Here are a few aspects to keep an eye on:

• Continued Development: ⁤Observing Sarr’s progress in skill development and ability to ⁢contribute consistently will be critical.
• Injury Management: Staying healthy is paramount; injuries can derail promising careers.
• Fan ⁤Engagement: How Sarr interacts with fans will foster ‌loyalty and support, crucial for a rookie’s morale.

Conclusion

While the journey of a rookie⁤ like Alex Sarr is filled with challenges, ​it is⁤ also paved with opportunities. As he navigates the uncertainties of his first season, the basketball community eagerly anticipates his growth ‍and contributions to the Washington Wizards. The path from euphoria to uncertainty ⁣is part of the game, and Sarr’s resilience will be​ key to his ⁤success in ⁣the league.