The Washington Wizards are rebuilding with young players, and CJ McCollum is leading the team. The franchise recently witnessed its former star, John Wall’s retirement, while its game plan for the upcoming season did not leave behind.
McCollum brings veteran experience to the Wizards’ core. During the team’s media day, he shared advice with rookie Tre Johnson, the sixth overall pick. He told Johnson to have a hobby outside of basketball to avoid rumors during the long run in the league.
“With the young fella from Texas, I was telling him, ‘What else do you do besides play basketball?’ And I had to envision what it was like when I was 19. I was still in college, I wasn’t in the NBA,” McCollum said. “He was like, ‘I just sleep.’ I was like ‘Bro, you gotta find something else. You don’t play video games?’ …. We’re gonna be in new cities every night. You’re gonna need something to do on that off day that’s not basketball. Massage, yoga, whatever,’” However, Coach Brian Keefe agreed with McCollum’s advice.
McCollum’s recent take on the NBA‘s new CBA drew a lot of attention. Now, as a seasoned player, his advice might help the young stars focus on their goal and avoid getting sidetracked by unnecessary things. This could lead to their seamless success in the league ahead.
Will The Washington Wizards Trade CJ McCollum?
McCollum is entering his 13th NBA season with the Wizards. The young roster has McCollum’s back as the tenured player in the depth. He is expected to guide the team, and the team has complete faith in his direction.
The Wizards may trade McCollum before the end of the season. His huge contract makes a deal difficult, but a buyout could let him join a playoff team. Whether he stays or leaves for another team, the Wizards should take his mentorship as long as he stays in the core.
The post CJ McCollum Establishes New Culture For The Washington Wizards’ Young Core originally published on Total Pro Sports.