Wizards' Alex Sarr sure is looking like he should've been the No. 1 pick

"The months leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft were among the most turbulent in the event's recent history. Washington Wizards big man Alex Sarr was at one point projected to go No. 1 overall, but Zaccharie Risacher suddenly and decisively leapfrogged him the closer the annual selection process drew near. Fast forward to 2026 and it's becoming clear that, with no slight to Risacher, Sarr should've gone No. 1 overall in the 2024 NBA Draft."

"San Antonio Spurs rising star Stephon Castle will likely argue otherwise, and with good reason. When looking exclusively at pre-draft rankings and the big boards that flooded the internet, however, the questions about how Sarr's game would translate to the NBA have been answered. Though his physical tools were praised, many questioned if he would be able to become a true defensive anchor, as well as a high-level offensive contributor. Turns out, he already checks those boxes."

"It's still too soon to determine what type of impact on winning Sarr will have long term, but he's looking the part of a franchise big early in his career. Sarr, 20, is currently averaging 17.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.1 offensive boards, 2.7 assists, 2.1 blocks, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 three-point field goals made per game on .505/.344/.708 shooting. He's on pace to become the first Wizards player to average at least 15.0 points and 2.0 blocks since Pervis Ellison in 1992-93, per StatMuse."

Alex Sarr rose from a contested pre-draft projection to establish himself as a two-way franchise big for the Washington Wizards by 2026. Early concerns about his ability to anchor defensively and contribute offensively have been allayed by consistent on-court performance. Sarr defends isolation actions effectively, showcasing recovery, footwork, length, and instincts. He averages 17.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.1 offensive boards, 2.7 assists, and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting .505/.344/.708. Those numbers place him on pace for a rare Wizards combination of scoring and rim protection not seen since 1992-93.

Read at Wiz of Awes