One of the youngest players in the 2024 NBA draft, Carlton “Bub” Carrington was selected higher than expected with the 14th selection by the Washington Wizards. Through his first nine games, Carrington proved the Wizards made the right choice.

In a 107-92 loss to the Rockets on Monday night, he had 10 points, six assists, four steals, two blocks and two rebounds. This is the third time in his last five games that he has recorded four interceptions.

The rookie’s playing and scoring ability was a primary factor in Washington’s decision to draft him in the lottery, but the defensive versatility he’s shown so early in his career is promising. The young guard still needs to improve his defense and positioning on the ball, but his ability to get his hands on the ball with his 6-foot-9 wingspan will be an extremely valuable asset for a Wizards team looking to build an identity. As his four steals against the Rockets show, Carrington was able to steal the ball on numerous drives and get a number of deflections that won’t show up in the box score. If he can be a high-level disruptor on the defensive end, it could change the trajectory of his career.

In addition to his defensive potential, Carrington has demonstrated the ability to impact the game in several ways. He flirted with a triple-double in Friday’s loss to the Grizzlies, recording 10 points, 10 rebounds and eight assists along with four steals. His high-level vision and playmaking ability will allow him to play both guard positions and serve as a primary or secondary ball handler. His rebounding ability is unique for a guard and will help the Wizards get out quickly and often in transition.

Carrington paces all rookies in minutes per game, assists per game and steals per game. He also ranks 5th in points per game and rebounds per game. He’ll look to build on his early success and help a rebuilding Wizards team compete in a wide-open Eastern Conference.

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