The Washington Wizards proceed their offseason revamp, executing one other commerce, this time for Cam Whitmore.
The Houston Rockets participant was traded to the Washington Wizards in change for simply two second-round picks.
He was picked twentieth general by the Rockets within the 2023 NBA Draft, amid curiosity from a number of groups together with LA Lakers.
Nevertheless, Whitmore didn’t get common enjoying time in Houston beneath coach Ime Udoka, that includes solely 51 occasions within the 2024-25 season.
The Rockets made it to the playoffs, however Whitmore was given solely seven minutes within the collection in opposition to the Golden State Warriors.
Udoka made it clear that he anticipated consistency and outlined his expectations from Whitmore.
However the 21-year-old wished a bigger position, and the commerce to the Wizards will definitely give him that.
Whitmore was probably the most athletic abilities in his draft class and followers consistently demanded to see extra of him on the court docket.
Nevertheless, Udoka’s arrival meant that the Rockets went to a way more disciplined fashion of play and that made it troublesome for Whitmore to play.
Furthermore, a participant of Whitmore’s expertise being traded for simply two second-round picks left not solely Rockets followers, but in addition the others within the NBA group fuming.
One person tweeted on X: “Woww no approach that’s all it took?”
Whereas one other stated: “That’s a steal for the Wizards.”
One other added: “Whitmore will ignite with the Wizards.”
Lakers followers additionally expressed their disappointment on the staff not making a proposal for Whitmore.
One stated: “Lakers would’ve had to surrender 2 first, Reaves, Rui, and Gabe only for conversations to start out.”
Whereas one other remarked: “Rob couldn’t hand over 2 second spherical picks.”
Whitmore was anticipated to be among the best gamers within the 2023 draft as he proved his brilliance within the Summer time League, successful MVP honors there.
His athleticism was anticipated to assist him be a key a part of the younger Rockets core, however coach Udoka didn’t give him adequate minutes.
This was anticipated to be on his thoughts as he approached free company, however as a restricted free agent, there was not quite a bit Whitmore might management.
Nevertheless, this transfer to the Wizards was one of the best one for him as it’s a staff that may give him the minutes he desires.
The roster is shaping as much as be sensible as they now have gamers like Khris Middleton, Marcus Good and CJ McCollum.
Whereas these veterans can contribute to the staff, their younger core of Whitmore, Tre Johnson, Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly can be thrilling.
Having completed within the backside of the standings final season, these strikes are encouraging because it units them up for a greater end subsequent yr.
Whitmore is electrical and his addition is predicted to present the Wizards a lift that may make them a enjoyable staff to observe.
