Why Aren't Wizards Playing AJ Johnson?

Despite Johnson's solid rookie season, he still has a fair amount of flaws to work out. He did take strides in regard to the development of his frame, but he is still a very slight player, limiting his ability on both ends. Along with that, he is still working out his feel on both sides of the ball, as oftentimes he is caught moving too fast — leading to some sloppy turnovers. Johnson has shown steady improvement as a player in his short NBA tenure but has a ways to go before he is an impactful NBA player.

Lack of Opportunity

On a Wizards roster that is filled with a mix of young and old talent, a few guys will have to be left out as odd men out. Typically, head coaches will prefer to lean on more proven talent in these types of situations, as it is a better assurance that the team will play competitively. However, Washington's slow start to the season has left fans wondering why Johnson in particular has been the odd man out.

There are other young Wizards who haven't been able to carve themselves out a role — such as Will Riley and Jamir Watkins — but what separates them from Johnson is their opportunity in the G-League. Both Riley and Watkins have seen extended runs thus far with the Capital City Go-Go, allowing them to get on-court reps even if it isn't on the NBA floor. For whatever reason, the Wizards' front office has not made the same decision for Johnson thus far, adding confusion about what their direction is with him.

Johnson's sophomore season is off to an odd start. Between lack of opportunity and an odd situation, he has found himself in a predicament where playing time isn't coming easily. As the season progresses and as the Wizards lose more games, Johnson will likely get an influx of opportunity. But for the time being, the question of why he isn't playing remains a mystery.