NBA NBA East Wizards

Middleton, Smart Praised as Mentors for Young Wizards

Jarrett SpenceMarch 7, 20251 Mins read698

WASHINGTON, DC - FEBRUARY 21: Khris Middleton #32 of the Washington Wizards in action against the Milwaukee Bucks during the first half at Capital One Arena on February 21, 2025 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 Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

The newly acquired Wizards are already bringing veteran leadership for the young team.

Former All-Star Khris Middleton and former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart have stepped into new roles as mentors. Even though it is a small sample size, the Wizards are 3-3 with those two vets in the lineup. Both of them have been very vocal about teaching and playing winning basketball with this young squad.

Quotes from Players and Coaching

Now considered leaders with this team, Khash and Smart have been the go-to guys for knowledge. Kyshawn George said they have been willing to share their knowledge with the younger players.

https://twitter.com/wizardslead/status/1897493937914315080?s=46

Middleton Alex Sarr are also developing a nice chemistry in the pick-and-roll. Coach Brian Keefe thinks he is an underrated passer with his high basketball IQ.

https://twitter.com/wizardslead/status/1897479962795414007?s=46

Bilal Coulibaly said the 2021 NBA champion has been giving tips on both ends of the court. Smart also has been giving tips to Coulibaly about being physical without fouling.

“He’s been teaching me a lot. I mean, just putting pressure on the guys without fouling. I was fouling too much, putting both hands on the players, and he gave me a couple of tips, so I’m way better now.” – RG.org

Here are some quotes the players had to say about their seasoned veterans:

– “You can literally see the game change when Marcus gets on the floor.” Corey Kispert

– “What makes him such a great player, his presence, his energy, his physicality…he’s Defensive Player of the Year so he’s allowed to be extremely aggressive and I think that really helps our team.” – Jordan Poole

Smart’s leadership was some of the foundational work that helped the Celtics become who they are today. Middleton, who was looked at a the second-best player for the Bucks during their championship-contender years, was a leader too.

Middleton (12.3 PPG) and Smart (9.7 PPG) are not scoring a ton for the Wizards, but their impact goes beyond the numbers. They both made it clear they are here to be a mentor and try to play winning ball.

This type of vet is needed to teach upcoming players in this league.

Written by

Jarrett Spence

Jarrett Spence is a freelance sports journalist specializing in NBA and WNBA coverage, with experience writing for platforms like FanSided and The Stop and Pop. Based in Washington, D.C., he covers the Washington Wizards and Mystics, delivering engaging stories, game analysis, and exclusive player insights. With a passion for storytelling and a strong social media presence.