The Wizards have fallen short on the Cooper Flagg sweepstakes, dropping to the sixth pick in the upcoming draft.
Fans were disappointed with the lottery drawing’s result, but there are still some very talented players in this class.
Derik Queen, out of the University of Maryland, is one player to watch. As the team progresses with its rebuilding process, GM Will Dawkins is looking forward to using the pick to bring in some more talent to mesh with this young roster.
Inside Play
Derik Queen is the ideal fit to play alongside Alex Sarr.
Queen’s ability to play inside, make plays, and be a mobile forward can complement the stretch five ability that Sarr possesses. Coming off a season where he averaged 16.5 ppg and did most of his damage inside the arc, he gives the Wizards that mid to low post point of attack that teams need.
He played center during his sole year in college, but his 6’9” frame will probably have him see most of his time at power forward. Here is a video of Queen with his elite footwork inside.
Size
Derik Queen’s measurements at the NBA Draft Combine were very impressive.
With his length, he can be a good defender if he puts the effort into it. He measured at 6’9 1/4” barefoot with a 7’0 1/2” wingspan and a 9’1 1/2” standing reach.
Adding that kind of length is ideal in today’s league. Sarr (7’0” with 7’4“ wingspan) Kyshawn George (6’8” with 6’10” wingspan) Bilal Coulibaly (6’9” height with 7’3” wingspan) are all length defenders. Queen can fit right into that mold of lengthy defenders.
Baltimore Ties
Bub Carrington made it clear that he wants Queen to be a Wizard. Carrington was in attendance at the lotto for his team as the team’s representative. Carrington and Queen are both Baltimore kids, playing against each other in high school.
Queen is a player who can greatly aid the Wizards’ rebuilding. He’s got the size, skill, and fit for what Washington is looking for as they reshape their identity.
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