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The Washington Wizards are coming off a disappointing 35-47 season in which they failed to make it to the play-in tournament. The franchise appears at a crossroads with the news about Bradley Beal’s contract looming. While it appears Beal is leaning toward returning to the organization, this does not change the flawed roster surrounding him.
In order to prevent further wasting their superstar’s prime, the Wizards are in need of an impressive offseason. One route in which they must be sure to capitalize is through the draft. The Wizards currently hold the 10th and 54th picks in the upcoming 2022 draft. While there are more established targets at the 10th pick, Washington cannot afford to waste any selections. Adding another impact player with their second-round pick would help steer the franchise in the right direction. Here are three sleeper prospects to keep an eye on with the 54th pick.
3 sleeper prospects for Wizards to target in 2022 NBA Draft
Andrew Nembhard- PG Gonzaga
A true point guard and arguably the best passer in the draft, Andrew Nembhard has continually been overlooked by NBA teams. The 22-year-old spent two seasons at Florida before transferring to Gonzaga. He averaged 11.8 points, 5.8 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game this season which were all career-highs for him. While he does not have the flashiest stats, Nembhard is a smart basketball player who could be capable of running a second unit for the Wizards.
There are some concerns about his lack of athleticism, but the Gonzaga guard has good size for the position at 6’5”. He has shot above 30% from three all four years of college and was a 38.3% three-pointers this past season. Nembhard competes defensively and has proved to step up in big moments. While he is not flashy and has a fairly limited upside, Nembhard is a capable member of an NBA bench and this is great value around this selection.
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Trevor Keels- SG Duke
Despite being highly regarded coming out of high school, Trevor Keels has seen his stock decline as the draft approaches. The Duke product averaged 11.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.2 steals in his sole season in college. His inefficient shooting has been the biggest red flag in his draft stock. Keels shot 31.2% from beyond the arc, 41.9% from the field, and 67% at the free-throw line this season. The 6’4” guard also was somewhat turnover prone and could be unfocused on defense at times.
While his season at Duke was fairly disappointing, Trevor Keels still holds a fairly high pedigree and the Wizards could benefit from drafting him. He was expected to hold first-round value and has the feel of a guy who could develop into a solid NBA player. There are certainly concerns in his game, but an NBA team is sure to take a chance on the Duke product. The feeling is pretty scattered on where Trevor Keels will go off the board, but he would be worth a selection at the 50th pick.
Ibou Dianko Badji- C Barcelona
An intriguing prospect with a 7’1” frame and sculpted body. The product of Senegal, Badji also has a 7’8” wingspan. He initially declared for the 2021 draft but elected to pull his name and come back this year. He is incredibly raw but is not afraid to slam home dunks and alley-oops with eye-opening aggression.
The big man also is very active defensively and projects well as a shot blocker. Badji fits the model for a rim-running big man who is active on both sides of the court. The 19-year-old will take a few years to develop but has impressive long-term potential. In 19.8 minutes per game, he averaged 8.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks last season with Barcelona.
The Wizards certainly have plenty of work to do beyond just the draft. There isn't a singular player who can change the direction of the organization but each of these players is worth a flyer.
