Wizards select Rui Hachimura with No. 9 pick

With the No. 9 pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, the Washington Wizards selected Gonzaga forward Rui Hachimura.

The Japanese forward continued to grow and flourish with the Bulldogs, significantly raising his production from when he began with the program two seasons prior. It led to the Zags finishing No. 1 overall in the AP Poll prior to the start of conference tournament play.

Though there are some consistency concerns, Hachimura has the build of a modern power forward thanks to his outstanding length and strength. He averaged 19.7 points and 6.5 rebounds in 37 games as Gonzaga went to the Elite Eight.

Bio

Position: F
School: Gonzaga
College Experience: Junior
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 230 lbs
Wingspan: 7-foot-2
Max Vertical: N/A

Strengths

• Extremely powerful athlete with terrific size and length.
• Will bully the opposition in transition and finish above the rim in space.
• Very good handle for his size. Should be able to blow past opposing big men.
• Still learning the game but his growth gives hope for a high ceiling.
• Low volume from the perimeter but connected on 41.7 percent of his 3-pointers.

Weaknesses

• Lacks a true feel for the game and doesn't yet have the reliable IQ to be trusted as an immediate impact player.
• Little to no passing instincts. Despite high usage on a successful Gonzaga team, averaged just 1.5 assists per game.
• Not an ideal player to plug into a raw roster with young talent. Will need veterans to guide him through growing pains.