Jamir Watkins has become an extremely valuable player for the Wizards.
The second-round rookie is already among the best defenders in DC. While many players drafted in the 40s might never step on the court or play significant minutes, Watkins has shown potential to be a future part of Washington’s rotation.
Defensive Impact
Jamir Watkins has made a significant defensive impact for the struggling Wizards. With Bilal Coulibaly dealing with injuries, Watkins has stepped up as a key perimeter defender. Watkins’s combination of quickness and his 6’6, 210-pound frame allows him to keep up with some of the best perimeter players in the league.
The Cavs’ backcourt of Mitchell and Garland has combined to shoot just 7/16 against Watkins, while committing three turnovers. Even Pascal Siakam, Derrick White, and Jalen Johnson have faced difficulties, shooting a combined 2/7 against the rookie.
While Watkins doesn’t have notable individual stats, his defensive impact is clear in advanced metrics. Washington allows 2.6 fewer points per 100 possessions defensively with Watkins on the floor, despite him usually being a primary defender with little help.
Even as a guard, opponents shoot 4.6% worse at the rim, demonstrating his lateral quickness. He is also an elite defensive rebounder, ranking in the 93rd percentile. Not many players want it more than Watkins; he ranks in the 80th percentile in offensive fouls drawn and 84th percentile in deflections. The FSU alum will fight for every single inch and has provided the effort that the Wizards desperately need.
Watkins’ Potential
While Watkins is impressing defensively, he came into the draft as a defensively focused player.
Three-point shooting was his swing trait. So far, he’s passed the test. Watkins is shooting 36.4% from three, not a significant mark, but good enough. In games, he’s shot multiple threes that mark rises to 50%, an unsustainable but encouraging shooting line. Watkins is also an excellent cutter and aggressive in the paint, leading to shooting 81.8% on twos.
Is this enough for Watkins to become a legitimate role player? Watkins is an older rookie at 24, but his traits have shown he can become a real contributor. He has made a positive impact for the Wizards and could be a top backcourt defender on most teams in the league.
Whether his offense continues to develop likely depends on his progress as a three-point shooter and playmaker. Still, so far, he’s been a significant success for a second-round rookie.
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