John Wall said the Wizards need athletic big men, and he’s right. Marcin Gortant and Ian Mahinmi aren’t the long-term answer at center, no matter how much money you pay them. Williams would give Washington an serviceable rim-runner with ample potential on the defensive end.
Williams’ NCAA Tournament run, during which they eliminated North Carolina, reminded many scouts of what put him in the lottery discussion last year. His rim protection isn’t far behind Jaren Jackson and Mo Bamba, while his mobility out to the perimeter is rare for a player with his physical tools.
There are concerns about Williams’ lack of offensive growth, but part of that was his role at A&M. He often played out of position at power forward, something that won’t happen in the NBA. His athleticism and ability to play above the rim would fit nicely with Wall running the show.