Perhas the most surprising silver lining for the Wizards 2009-10 season was Shaun Livingston, who arrived in Washington on Feb. 26 via a 10-day contract and has parlayed that into a starting role the last 17 games and averages of 9.2 points and 4.3 assists over his 25 total contests with the Wizards. Three years after a horrific knee injury derailed his career, Livingston used the detonation of the Wizards roster to prove that he can be an effective NBA point guard once again.
And he knows it.
“It’s a blessing in disguise,” said Livingston after shootaround on Wednesday. “Obviously, it’s unfortunate with everything that’s happened with the organization. But I still had a job to do, and that was my goal, to do it as best as I can. I feel good about it overall. Tonight is like dotting the eyes and crossing the Ts.”
Did you need this kind of chance [not just workouts and the D-League] to prove your capabilities?
“Definitely. Just because it’s moreso for everybody else to see what I’ve seen with my progress, what I’m confident and capable of. But it’s about showing, showcasing and showing everybody else, not only this team, but other teams as well.”
What did this last month [16.3 ppg, 6.1 apg in seven games during April] do for you?
“It boosted my confidence and gave me kind of like a chip on my shoulder as I go out to continue to improve and stay consistent. It took a little bit just for me to get into the offense and get comfortable, but [Wizards head coach] Flip [Saunders] put in kind of a new offense, two or three weeks after I signed, and I think it worked out for me as well.”
Have you thought about potentially playing with Gilbert Arenas?
“It’s a possibility. I’ve played with other scorers before, especially at the guard position. So, I mean, I’m not a pure scorer myself. It’s something I had to improve upon. It’s something I’ve showcased as well. My greatest ability is making others better and having a feel for the game.”
How has it been to have Wizards assistant coach Sam Cassell work with you?
“It’s great. Not only has he helped me with my game, but with my confidence as well, and then having a voice on the bench and throughout the organization. Just to have that presence and that influence as well. We just have that mutual respect. Not only as a coach, but we were teammates. ”
Is the presence of Cassell an influence on whether or not you might re-sign with the Wizards in the offseason?
“I don’t know. At the end of the day, I have to do what’s best for my situation. And Sam, you know, he has his job here. It’s just, I’ve got to weigh the options.”
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