What Value Does Brogdon Bring to Wizards?

“Man I was super excited…you know I feel like I’m coming back home”

“I’ve always had extended family in DC that I visited growing up, ending up coming to school here…my wife is from Northern Virginia, this is a full circle moment for me to be able to play for the Wizards, it’s a team I’ve always wanted to put the jersey on for so I’m super excited to be here.” This was Malcolm Brogdon’s opening statement during his first media availability with the Washington Wizards.

What does Brogdon bring?

Brogdon gives this team a scoring option off the bench or as a starter. The Wizards ranked sixth in bench scoring last season (39.4). Jordan Poole played a part in that, coming off the bench for a stretch to end the year. Poole will now be the starting point under Brian Keefe. Brogdon, the former Sixth Man of the Year, can immediately control the offense off the bench. But he can also be plugged into different lineups alongside Poole, who Brogdon called “one of the best young talents in the league”.  Keefe told Brogdon he needed his ability to touch the paint. That skill can open up the drive and kick game.

Brogdon says he feels that he can fit with this young team. He spent his last season with the Portland Trail Blazers, another young team. The emphasis for this team will be to run more. Brogdon is excited to play this style of basketball. He has given high praise to the rookies on this squad, especially Bub Carrington.

Brogdon can be plugged into a myriad of different lineups and produce. Last season, he averaged 15.7 points and 5.5 assists per game while starting 25 of the 39 games he played. He was also a marksman, shooting 41.2 percent from behind the arc. Brogdon’s experience and leadership will help to build a winning culture for this young Wizards team. Teams need youth to build for the future, but they also need veterans like Malcolm Brogdon to help mold the raw talent. 

The President is Brogdon’s nickname, so Washington DC is a very fitting spot for the vet who can’t wait to be a vocal presence on the court and in the locker room.