Jason Smith understands what the Wizards need. He also knows a guy he says fits that role. Himself, of course. “They need a big man who is quick and agile,” said the Colorado State center. “I fit the characteristics very well and I think I can help the Wizards out.”
Whether or not that happens will be determined on June 28, the night of the NBA Draft. Washington, which selects 16th and 47th, conducted its first round of individual workouts at the Verizon Center on Thursday. Smith was among three players who participated.
The others: Florida guard Taurean Green and Marist guard Jared Jordan.
The evaluations continue today with two workouts. In the first group, Vanderbilt’s Derrick Byars, Georgia Tech’s Javaris Crittenton, USC’s Nick Young and China’s Sun Yue will participate. Two hours later, the Wizards will work out George Washington’s Carl Elliott, Virginia Tech’s Jamon Gordon, Duke’s Josh McRoberts and Creighton’s Anthony Toliver.
The Wizards got a chance to scout Green during the Orlando Pre-Draft Camp last week. But Smith did not participate in Orlando.
However, he knows the Wizards need help inside, with scoring and rebounding.
“That is a big part of my game,” he said. “I love fighting for rebounds, long rebounds or short rebounds, I will fight for it no matter what.”
The Wizards also would like to add depth at point guard, which makes Green attractive. In college, he got the ball to more high-profile teammates. He would do the same thing in D.C.
“I love creating plays for my teammates,” he said. “[Washington] has a bunch of talented players that I would not mind getting the ball to.”
