Washington Wizards guard Tre Johnson registered another double-digit scoring effort on Sunday, and the rookie earned praise from coach Brian Keefe afterward.
Johnson produced 14 points, four assists, one steal and one blocked shot in a 116-112 win over the Memphis Grizzlies at Capital One Arena. He went 5-of-11 from the field in 25 minutes as the Wizards (7-23) won consecutive games for the first time this season.
The sixth pick started for the first time since Nov. 12, recording 12 points in the first half alone. He shot 2-of-5 from 3-point range, including a 32-footer from the Wizards’ logo.
“You can see that he knows how to get in spots and read the game to get his shot, either coming off pindowns or off-ball screening or pick and rolls,” Keefe said of Johnson. “He has a knack for scoring, getting in the paint, and making plays. I thought he was really good in that first half with that. I liked him with that starting unit. I liked what I saw. He is growing. Each game, (he) is a little bit better and a little bit more rhythm. I thought he had a terrific game tonight.”
Johnson is averaging 11.6 points, three rebounds and 1.6 assists on 37.9% shooting from 3-point range with the Wizards. He ranks eighth in rookie scoring and has the most 3-pointers through the first 23 games of a career in franchise history (44).
The 19-year-old has played a key role for Keefe and looks to be settling in after missing time with a left hip flexor injury. He has showcased his dynamic scoring ability on offense, while pushing the pace to generate paint touches and easy looks for his teammates.
Johnson has earned praise for his work ethic and ability on both ends of the court throughout the season. The group has been pleased with his play and will be eager to watch his continued development.