The Washington Wizards still have a roster spot to fill and after being linked last month, we take a look at whether Gabe Vincent is a fit in DC
The Washington Wizards have entered the month of August with two unanswered questions: will Anthony Davis be resigned, and will Washington add another free agent?
While both questions are trending in an upward and positive direction, GM Will Dawkins has yet to make an official move.
While the longterm future of Davis has peaked the most interest, Washington remains in the market for a backup veteran guard, and have been linked to the likes of Russell Westbrook, Demar Derozan and Gabe Vincent, who we will be talking about today.
Vincent is a savvy veteran guard with years of playoff experience, which could come in handy on a young, up and coming Washington team who is set to compete this upcoming season.
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn ImagesIn 53 games played between the Los Angeles Lakers & Atlanta Hawks last season, Vincent averaged 4.4 PPG, 1.4 APG and 0.5 SPG on 35.2% FG% and 34.1% 3FG in 16.6 minutes per game.
Vincent isn't the floor general that Washington fans desire, but he's more than capable of generating looks for others due to his pace and savvy style of play. I believe Vincent would thrive in Washington's fast paced, transition based scheme.
There's no denying that Vincent is on the backend of his career, but his experience and ability to be a leader on and off the court would be highly impactful.
Vincent played an instrumental role on the 2022-23 Miami Heat team that made the NBA Finals. Although Miami lost to the Denver Nuggets in five games, Vincent averaged 11.4 PPG in 28.6 minutes throughout those finals.
While Vincent isn't expected to be Washington's go-to backup guard off the bench, he could be heavily relied on later into the season if players get injured or struggle with fatigue.
By signing a guy like Vincent, it sends a positive message to third year guard and former first-round pick Bub Carrington, who is expected to take a leap in his development this season. Additionally, it would give Carrington an easier pathway to playing time as Vincent would likely be the third point guard in the rotation.
While Vincent isn't a flashy name like Westbrook or Derozan would be, he's a gritty, hard-working veteran that would send the right message to Washington's young core.
It remains unclear which direction GM Will Dawkins will go: does he sign a higher profile guy in Westbrook or Derozan, or settle for a guy like Vincent?
