Wizards Discover Why Pelicans Eagerly Traded CJ McCollum
The Washington Wizards recently acquired CJ McCollum, aiming to strengthen their guard position. However, early season performance has raised concerns regarding this decision.
Trade Overview
This past summer, the Wizards traded Jordan Poole and Saddiq Bey to secure the services of CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk. Olynyk was later traded to the San Antonio Spurs.
McCollum, regarded for his veteran experience, was expected to serve as a reliable offensive option. With a track record of consistent scoring and leadership, the Wizards hoped he would help mentor their younger players.
CJ McCollum’s Performance Breakdown
- Current Season Average: 13.3 points per game
- Shooting Percentage: 32.1% from the field, 25.9% from three-point range
- Assists: 20 assists over four games
Historically, McCollum averaged between 20 and 23.1 points per game for ten consecutive seasons. His current average marks the lowest since his breakout campaign in 2015-16, when he earned the Most Improved Player award.
Concerns About Efficiency
McCollum’s inability to gain separation and connect effectively on offense has been troubling. Despite not turning the ball over frequently, his contributions have been minimal, leaving him as a defensive liability within the rotation.
While he adds value to the locker room and provides mentorship to budding players, including Bub Carrington and Tre Johnson, the expectation for elite on-court impact appears to have diminished.
Future Implications
As the season progresses, the Wizards hope McCollum can regain his offensive flair, benefiting from the emergence of players like Kyshawn George and Alex Sarr. If he fails to improve, McCollum may find himself transitioning to a backup role in the coming seasons.
Initial skepticism surrounding the Pelicans’ decision to trade McCollum now seems justified. The Wizards’ experimental upgrade at guard has not unfolded as anticipated, raising questions about McCollum’s role moving forward.
