The Washington Wizards appeared to choose their long-term future over winning now at Thursday’s trade deadline. The 6-foot-10 Daniel Gafford was the Wizards’ prize possession for trading away Troy Brown and Moe Wagner.
Making his debut with his new team Saturday, Gafford made a great first impression against the Detroit Pistons. Gafford flashed a glimpse of what could be, scoring 13 points and grabbing five rebounds in 14 minutes off the bench.
The 13 points was Gafford’s second highest output of the season. He made his first six shot attempts, before finishing 6-of-7 from the field. Additionally, he highlighted his night wit finishing off a lob from Russell Westbrook. Gafford also added three blocks and a steal on the defensive end as well.
The Wizards acquired the 22-year old Gafford along with Chandler Hutchison from the Chicago Bulls, sending Brown to the Bulls. Meanwhile, Wagner ended up with the Boston Celtics as a part of a three-team deal.
The Wizards have longed for a post presence and rim protector for quite some time. They feel they’ve got a potential answer in Gafford.
Against the worst team in the Eastern Conference, Gafford displayed attributes that makes the Wizards confident. His energy was and ability to attack in the post came in handy as the Wizards weathered a ferocious comeback attempt from the Pistons. The Wizards led by as many as 30 in the third quarter.
However, the Pistons stormed back with a 31-5 run, cutting the Wizards’ lead to four at the end of the third. But, it was Gafford who got a critical three-point play that seemingly calmed the flow of the game.
The Wizards would get back on track to pull away to a 106-92 win. It was just one game, but Gafford impressed his new head coach Scott Brooks.
Gafford’s debut provides a glimmer of hope, the Wizards may have found their answer at center for the future. Only time will tell. But, it’s no denying Gafford got off to a great start. His next test will be Monday against the Indiana Pacers. He’ll be tasked to go up against the Pacers’ formidable duo inside, Domantas Sabonis and Myles Turner.
