TraeYoung

Preseason question: Can Trae become more efficient now that there’s a lesser burden on both sides of the court? The Wizards’ assemblage of talent isn’t exactly the most natural fit in the world. Pairing new franchise cornerstone AJ Dybantsa, who possesses supernatural ballhandling and driving ability for a player of his size, with one of the most ball-dominant guards in history doesn’t sound like a good recipe for either winning or development. But Washington clearly bought low on Young at the deadline—and subsequently gave him a dramatically above-market new contract—with the belief that he can change. Perhaps the idea is that, ultimately, having a passer of Young’s caliber will be a net positive for a young team. For years, the concept of Trae playing off the ball to get cleaner looks from behind the arc was more of a utopian ideal, but the past few seasons have surely humbled the eight-year vet. He is also theoretically playing alongside more secondary playmakers (albeit unproven ones) than he’s ever had in his career, which should naturally allow him to flow into gaps and creases. His shot diet has historically been all about quantity over quality, but he’s never been as good of a pull-up shooter as his reputation suggests. Still, there’s a reason why he lets those shots fly. You can’t fake Trae’s level of touch. Young has shot 38.8 percent on catch-and-shoot 3s across his entire NBA career, including the playoffs—far better than his overall deep-range numbers. The past isn’t always the best indicator of future performance. That’s ultimately the bet that Washington is making. As Trae rehabilitates his standing in the league hierarchy, getting back to basics and focusing on his actual strengths would be a worthwhile rewiring.