Corey Kispert on Thursday produced a career-high in a loss to the Miami Heat, one of a few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing contest for the Washington Wizards.
The 15th overall pick recorded 13 points and four rebounds during the 112-97 loss for his first career game scoring in double figures. He went 5-of-10 from the field, including 3-of-7 from 3-point range, in 24 minutes of work off of the bench.
The 24 minutes played by Kispert were his most of the season as the Wizards continue to play without Davis Bertans. He gave the team some floor spacing and was very effective in getting into the paint. Those two areas are how he should impact games, Wizards head coach Wes Unseld Jr. said.
Corey has played the same way. Obviously, (he) played a little longer tonight but his cutting and moving, he was very aggressive. He didn’t hesitate. He took the shots that were available. He didn’t turn them down. When he felt pressure, he was great — catch, get into the paint, kick out and respace. That’s going to be the way he has to impact the game.
Let that thing fly, @corey_kispert! 🔥
He's knocked down 3 from deep in the first half 👌#DCAboveAll pic.twitter.com/RYhp9vJhMH
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) November 19, 2021
Kispert entered the draft regarded as perhaps the best shooter in the class. While he is shooting just 25% from beyond the arc, he is still a threat and can help space the floor as it is likely only a matter of time before he starts converting at a high clip from deep.
The Wizards continue to trust Kispert and that resulted in a season-high 24 minutes in the loss to Miami. The team has high hopes for Kispert and the former Gonzaga standout showed some of what he can offer on Thursday night.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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