Alex Sarr Leads Wizards to Victory Over Trail Blazers

Sarr's dominant performance highlights the evolving role of modern NBA centers

Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:47pm

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Alex Sarr's 29-point, 12-rebound, 6-block game helped the Washington Wizards end their losing skid against the Portland Trail Blazers. Sarr's all-around game, including his perimeter shooting, showcases the new breed of skilled, mobile centers emerging in the NBA.

Why it matters

Sarr's performance is part of a broader trend in the NBA, where centers are developing a more versatile skill set beyond just traditional post-up play. This evolution is redefining the center position and impacting team-building strategies and player evaluation.

The details

Sarr's ability to operate on the perimeter, evidenced by his 3-of-9 shooting from beyond the arc, is crucial. He's not just a rim protector; he's a threat to score from multiple levels. This isn't an isolated case, as players like Nikola Jokic, Domantas Sabonis, and Alperen Sengün are also excelling as playmaking hubs. The Wizards' performance, despite being outrebounded, demonstrates the value of steals and blocks - defensive impact beyond simply securing rebounds.

  • The Wizards hadn't beaten the Trail Blazers in Washington D.C. since January 16, 2017, making this victory particularly significant.

The players

Alex Sarr

A dominant center for the Washington Wizards, Sarr's all-around game, including his perimeter shooting and rim protection, is emblematic of the evolving NBA center position.

Donovan Clingan

The Portland Trail Blazers' young center, Clingan's 20-rebound performance showcased his traditional strengths, but Sarr's versatility stood out in this matchup.

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What they’re saying

“He was trying to be physical on the boards. I just responded with physicality.”

— Alex Sarr

“The Blazers are a big, physical team. We knew we had to match their physicality.”

— Brian Keefe, Wizards Head Coach

What’s next

The inclusion of Sarr, Clingan, Kyshawn George, and Tre Johnson in next month's Rising Stars teams will provide a platform to showcase their skills and build excitement among fans.

The takeaway

The NBA is witnessing the rise of a new breed of skilled, mobile centers who can impact the game on both ends of the court. Teams are increasingly valuing defensive versatility and two-way potential in big men, a trend that is shaping the future of the league.