Washington Wizards: Grading every player’s 2019-20 season

Thomas Bryant: B-

Much of the fan base has soured on Thomas Bryant because he didn’t take a big leap forward this year. I think everyone needs to take a step back and manage expectations a bit. They got Bryant for nothing, he is barely older than Rui Hachimura, and he hasn’t played in all that many games. It’s perfectly reasonable to expect future improvement, especially defensively, and he’s on a very team-friendly deal.

In a league where teams are hesitant to pay centers big-time money unless they’re elite, Bryant provides a lot of value. The center is the anchor of your defense but if perimeter defenders offer little resistance, it is going to make the center look worse than he actually is. Bryant will never be Alonzo Mourning but if he gets a little tougher and more physical and can space the floor on a good deal than the Wizards need to hold onto him.

Shabazz Napier: A

Granted, the sample size was limited but Napier endeared himself to most fans very quickly. He scored, he distributed, and he defended. He also offers a change of pace from what John Wall brings to the table.

If the price were right, I’m sure the Wizards would love to have him back, even with Ish Smith already locked up for one more year.