In a conversation with Chase Hughes of Monumental Sports Network, the Washington Wizards veteran guard CJ McCollum shared his early impressions of the team’s rookie class – Tre Johnson, Will Riley, and Jamir Watkins.
While he spoke positively about all three, McCollum zeroed in on Watkins with particular enthusiasm, suggesting that the second-round pick has the tools to become a high-level defender in the NBA.
The experienced scorer described Watkins as a player with serious defensive potential and a mindset that sets him apart.
“He asks questions about defense. He was in the cold tub yesterday asking me about Herb Jones and what makes him such a good defender,” McCollum said.
“He was asking me how he got to that point. I was telling him that he cares. He watches film, he makes the extra effort, and the body type matches.”
The veteran guard emphasized how Watkins’ physical profile fits today’s NBA standards for versatile defenders.
“He’s got a good body – 6-foot-5, 6-foot-6 with long arms, quick enough to guard ones, strong enough to guard threes and fours. He can probably switch onto some fives and then it’s 3-and-D. The league loves that,” McCollum added, highlighting the value of that archetype in modern lineups.
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— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) October 12, 2025
