Alex Sarr exploded offensively, hitting career highs and solidifying his elite rim protection. A defensive force and scoring threat, his future is limitless.
The Washington Wizards have had the worst record in the NBA since the 2021-22 season, but there has been some light at the end of the tunnel, specifically in player development.
Washington saw significant growth from rookies Tre Johnson, Will Riley and Jamir Watkins throughout the season. Third year wing Bilal Coulibaly took great strides offensively towards the end of the season, and sophomores Kyshawn George and Bub Carrington progressed in ways Wizards fans could've never imagined.
However, big man and former second overall pick Alex Sarr saw the most progression on the team, and is emerging as one of the NBA's best young stars. We dive into the former number two overall pick in our first offseason player profile.
Washington Wizards Center Alex Sarr (20) | © Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images2025-26 Stats: 16.3 PTS, 7.4 REB, 2.7 AST, 48.2% FGs, 31.6% 3PT, 48 GAMES
When Washington selected Sarr back in 2024, they understood exactly what his skillset was -- a switchable, versatile defender with elite rim protection and high offensive upside. Many believed that Sarr would make an immediate impact on the defensive end, but would take a while to develop offensively.
Luckily for Washington, Sarr's offensive development came sooner than expected, as he set career highs in points per game, FG % and 3PT %.
Sarr saw his points per game jump from 13 in his rookie season to 16.3 this season, a 3.3 point increase. It's important to note that Sarr was one of the most inefficient big men in the league his rookie year, but saw a significant increase in shooting and scoring efficiency this past season.
Sarr shot 30.8% from three on 5.1 attempts per game his rookie season, but with a reformed shot diet, became more efficient from behind the arc as he shot 33.1% on 3.1 attempts per game. Additionally, Sarr saw his two point percentage increase from 45.4% his rookie season to 52.6% this past season.
Sarr not only excelled on offensive end, but emerged as one of the league's best rim protectors and defenders.
Sarr recorded 1.5 blocks per game during his rookie season, but has increased that number to 2.0 blocks per game this past season, which is second best in the NBA only behind Victory Wembanyama.
Standing at seven feet tall, Sarr has the size and defensive IQ to become one of the best interior defenders in the league. However, Sarr has seen significant growth as a perimeter defender, as he displayed his ability to switch onto the ball and defend from outside the arc.
Offseason Question: Improved Scoring Range?
Overall, Sarr has seen great progress in his development, and at only 20 years old, the sky is the limit for him. However, the question remains as to whether or not Sarr will be able to play with newly acquired point guard Trae Young at an elite level. Will Sarr see another increase in points in year three?
There's no denying that Young has been one of the league's best playmakers since he entered the league, and the expectation is that he will elevate the young core around him, specifically Sarr.