Wizards Notes: Deni Avdija, Monte Morris, Kendrick Nunn

The play of forward Deni Avdija is one reason the Wizards felt comfortable trading Rui Hachimura to the Lakers.

It’s worked out so far OK, as the Wizards have not lost since the deal and have won six straight overall.

“When we’re focused and sharing the ball, we’re a really dangerous team,” Avdija told reporters after Monday’s road win over the Spurs.

Avdija was 10-of-12 shooting against the Spurs for a career-high 25 points. Interestingly, he has been given the nickname “Turbo” by guard Monte Morris after the two played a game of 1-on-1.

“They really want me to succeed and be aggressive,” Avdija said. “Since they gave me that nickname, I really just am being more aggressive. I’m just enjoying it, that’s the most important for me.”

• The Wizards could use an upgrade at point guard despite the solid play of Morris, and may be seeking one ahead of the Feb. 9 trade deadline, per Josh Robbins of The Athletic. “But above all else, they need an All-Star-caliber player,” Robbins wrote.
• Guard Kendrick Nunn, acquired from the Lakers in the Hachimura trade, has scored in double digits in each of his first three games with Washington.

Corey Kispert has made at least one 3 in 24 straight G and is shooting 40%+ from all over the 3PT line, making for a very impressive shot chart.

Take a look on the latest Chasing Stats (@ITCadre) pic.twitter.com/HZ9q3N2TPC

— Chase Hughes (@ChaseHughesNBCS) January 31, 2023