"The Washington Wizards struggles to start the season have been the result of several issues on the roster, Between inconsistent play from the team's veteran leaders, inexperience from their young core and poor execution, Washington's early season woes can't be pinpointed by one specific reason. However, the team's current roster construction is a major reason for team's current spot at the bottom of the NBA standings."
"Will Riley was selected with the No. 21 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft as a rising prospect out of Illinois. The overized guard showed flashes of his ability to create with the ball in his hand during his lone season with the Fighting Illini. Between his feel for the game, high basketball IQ and natural scoring ability, Riley's upside was worth the swing for the Wizards as they continued to build towards the future."
"Despite not getting the opportunity to crack the rotation to start the season, Riley received the chance to prove what he was capable of with extended minutes in the G-League for the Capital City Go-Go. Serving as the point guard for the Go-Go, the 19-year-old impressed with the ball in his hands capping off a dominant 36-point performance with the Wizards head coach in attendance on the sidelines."
Washington Wizards' poor start stems from inconsistent veteran leadership, inexperienced young players, and frequent execution errors. Roster construction, particularly the absence of a true point guard, has intensified the team's struggles and contributed to its low standing. Rookie Will Riley, a 6'8" guard selected No. 21 in the 2025 draft out of Illinois, brings playmaking, feel, and scoring upside. Riley excelled in the G-League with extended minutes for Capital City Go-Go, delivering a 36-point game with the head coach observing. Coach Brian Keefe praised Riley's processing, passing, and game-reading, indicating Riley could handle primary ball-handling duties.
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