The Wizards Need to Draft Derik Queen

Inside Play

Derik Queen is the ideal fit to play alongside Alex Sarr.

Queen’s ability to play inside, make plays, and be a mobile forward can complement the stretch five ability that Sarr possesses. Coming off a season where he averaged 16.5 ppg and did most of his damage inside the arc, he gives the Wizards that mid to low post point of attack that teams need.

He played center during his sole year in college, but his 6’9” frame will probably have him see most of his time at power forward. Here is a video of Queen with his elite footwork inside.

Size

Derik Queen’s measurements at the NBA Draft Combine were very impressive.

With his length, he can be a good defender if he puts the effort into it. He measured at 6’9 1/4” barefoot with a 7’0 1/2” wingspan and a 9’1 1/2” standing reach.

Adding that kind of length is ideal in today’s league. Sarr (7’0” with 7’4“ wingspan) Kyshawn George (6’8” with 6’10” wingspan) Bilal Coulibaly (6’9” height with 7’3” wingspan) are all length defenders. Queen can fit right into that mold of lengthy defenders.

Baltimore Ties

Bub Carrington made it clear that he wants Queen to be a Wizard. Carrington was in attendance at the lotto for his team as the team’s representative. Carrington and Queen are both Baltimore kids, playing against each other in high school.

Queen is a player who can greatly aid the Wizards’ rebuilding. He’s got the size, skill, and fit for what Washington is looking for as they reshape their identity.