Washington Wizards rookie Deni Avdija earned the start on Sunday against the Brooklyn Nets and quickly proved why he was worthy of that honor during his preseason debut.
Avdija tallied 15 points, four rebounds and two assists during his Wizards debut while he finished a perfect 6-of-6 from the field, making all three of his 3-point attempts. He looked comfortable on the floor and flashed his offensive versatility, from working in the post to even handling the ball during some stretches in transition.
Wizards head coach Scott Brooks said prior to the game that the ninth overall pick was deserving to be in the starting lineup because of the toughness that he brings to the floor. Of course, Avdija is one of the more polished players in the draft this year having played overseas, and that poise and skill was on display on Sunday.
Avdija said this week that he will be using his past experiences playing professionally to his advantage this season. He admitted that he is still adjusting to the speed of the NBA but is confident he will pick it up quickly, which will allow him to play his game.
Of course, the highlight of the matchup on Sunday was the debut of Kevin Durant and the return of Kyrie Irving for the Nets but Avdija proved to be a nice subplot of the contest.
Washington returns to action on Thursday vs. the Detroit Pistons.
[lawrence-related id=24879,24381,24984]
https://embed.sendtonews.com/oembed/?SC=HDaAqAkJQH-1071134-7498&format=json&offsetx=0&offsety=0&floatwidth=400&floatposition=bottom-right&float=on
[listicle id=24420]