Wizards Breakout Candidate Reveals Intriguing Comparisons

George points out two players: longtime NBA journeyman Joe Ingles and the Oklahoma City Thunder’s all-around unit Jalen Williams.

Both of these players are great comparisons for George but let’s inspect them more closely.

Joe Ingles

Ingles has been in the league for 11 seasons, playing for the Utah Jazz, Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic, and Minnesota Timberwolves. His best campaign was in the 2020-21 season, where he averaged 12.1 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists, and was the runner-up in the Sixth Man of the Year race. In terms of both size and skill, George and Ingles share some similarities. However, the hope should be that George grows his game and surpasses the Ingles comparisons quickly.

In a true, foundation-altering rebuild, teams aren’t drafting or trading players to become an Ingles. With that being said, Ingles could be looked at as George’s floor. In his prime, Ingles was a key piece in Utah, providing a big spark off the bench. George was much the same last season and now he should be in a position for a much larger role.

Jalen Williams

Williams should be considered George’s ceiling. He’s Oklahoma City Thunder leader Shai Gilgeous-Alexander‘s co-star and for good reason. Over Williams’ first three seasons in the NBA, the Santa Clara product has averaged 18.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. This past season, he was an All-Star selection, an All-NBA Third Team selection, and made the All-Defensive Second Team.

George and Williams were both brought into very similar situations in their rookie years. Both squads have been built through the draft and have been given plenty of opportunities to grow and improve. In turn, it allows them to correct mistakes on the court rather than on the bench. Both players are well-rounded, being studs on both ends of the floor.

They both have great defensive senses, with strong awareness to go for blocks and jump passing lanes. Offensively, they can spread the floor and shoot the three-pointer, while also creating their own shot or driving and finishing strong. Both players can playmake as well, with Williams being the secondary option in that department and George most likely taking on a similar role this season.

The Last Word

George should seek to break out this season and put the league on notice. He has all the potential in the world and could solidify a long-term future in D.C. He’s got all the tools necessary; it’s just about putting it all together.