Deni Avdija made quite the first impression in his NBA preseason debut. The Washington Wizards rookie shot a perfect 6-of-6 from the field, including 3-of-3 from three-point range.
Avdija finished with 15 points. He added four rebound and two assists in 24 minutes against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday.
The ninth overall pick in this year’s NBA Draft earned the start with Russell Westbrook, Bradley Beal and Davis Bertans sitting out the game.
Avdija showed his versatility throughout the game. The 6-foot-9 forward created spacing with his shooting, pushed the ball dribbling in transition and flashed his ability to post-up smaller defenders. He also was able to beat defenders off the dribble.
The Israeli-born 19-year old has played professionally since the age of 16. He appeared to lean on that experience with his confidence to make plays throughout his time on the floor.
With his perfect night on the floor, Avdija quieted critics some about his 27.7% shooting from three in the EuroLeague last season with Maccabi Tel Aviv.
It’s just one preseason game, but the impressive showing displayed a glimpse of the type of player the Wizards are getting. It just adds to the anticipation of what may be in store when the rookie plays alongside of Beal and Westbrook.
