Wizards Rookie Guard Quickly Evolving Skillset

Jamir Watkins has shown improvement as an outside shooter, opening up other aspects of his game.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Despite the Washington Wizards' underwhelming season, rookie forward Jamir Watkins has been impressive, especially with his recent improvement as an outside shooter. Watkins, who was not highly touted coming out of college due to his offensive limitations, has seen a steady increase in his three-point shooting percentage over the last three games, hitting multiple outside shots in each game and shooting an impressive 53.8% over that stretch. This has opened up other aspects of his game, as defenders are now forced to pressure him on the perimeter, allowing him to get downhill and finish.

Why it matters

Watkins' development as a shooter is crucial for the Wizards, as it will allow him to become a more well-rounded and versatile player. If he can consistently knock down outside shots, it will open up driving lanes for him and make him a more valuable asset on the floor.

The details

Watkins was a subpar three-point shooting prospect in college, shooting just 32.5% from beyond the arc over his career. His struggles continued early in the NBA, as he is currently shooting just 28% from three on the season. However, over his last three games, Watkins has been vastly improved, hitting multiple outside shots in each game and shooting an impressive 53.8% over that stretch. This has allowed the rest of his game to open up, as defenders are now forced to pressure him on the perimeter, giving him more driving lanes to the basket.

  • Watkins has shown this improvement over his last three games.

The players

Jamir Watkins

A rookie forward for the Washington Wizards who was not highly touted coming out of college due to his offensive limitations, but has shown recent improvement as an outside shooter.

Washington Wizards

An NBA team that has had an underwhelming season so far, but has seen positive development from young players like Watkins.

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The takeaway

Watkins' recent improvement as a shooter is a positive sign for the Wizards, as it could make him a more well-rounded and valuable player moving forward. If he can consistently knock down outside shots, it will open up other aspects of his game and make him a more difficult matchup for opposing teams.