Checking In on Wizards G-League Rookies

Riley has accepted a role as one of the Go-Go’s lead creators, thriving in that spot. He has looked confident leading the offense, hunting his shots and creating looks for those around him. Riley hasn’t exactly been operating as the team's points guard, but the heavy onslaught of on-ball reps that he has gotten thus far will prove to be valuable for him in the long run. Riley will likely get some more opportunities with the Wizardards as the season progresses, but for the time being, using his time in the G-League to experiment within his skillset and continue to develop as a player will prove to be immensely valuable. 

Jamir Watkins

The Wizards snatched up the 24-year-old Watkins on a two-way deal following the selection of him with the 43rd pick in the 2025 NBA draft. Watkins was selected to be a defensive menace for the team, tasked with guarding opposing teams lead creators. Through his limited opportunity in the NBA thus far, Watkins has proven the ability to do so, checking into games specifically to guard opposing superstars. Although he has proven his defensive prowess, his lack of ability offensively has landed him in the G-League. Since being sent down, Watkins has appeared in two games, averaging 15 points, nine rebounds and four assists a game —- shooting 36.7% from the field, 16.7% from three and 57.1% from the line. 

Watkins' raw production may look bad, but those numbers have been heavily skewed by two vastly different performances. In his first game, Watkins struggled to get his shot going, shooting 4-14 from the field and 0-5 from three. He then followed that up with a much better shooting night, going 7-16 from the field and 2-7 from three. Watkins has still looked raw offensively, but is slowly figuring things out. Defensively however, he has looked every bit of the player he was built up to be, averaging two steals a game. Watkins has caused havoc on that end, constantly getting his hands on the ball and shutting down opposing players. He will likely be able to find the court in his NBA career because of his defensive ability, but the improvements that he makes offensively in the G-Legue is what will allow him to stick.