Redrafting the 2019 NBA Draft: Injury concerns and flawed greatness

With Miles Bridges out of the picture, P.J. Washington has (re)assumed the mantle of starting power forward in Charlotte and run with it. His efficiency has suffered under the weight of increased offensive responsibilities, but there’s reason to believe he can steady the ship over time. He’s finding new ways to leverage his strength and mobility in the frontcourt.

Washington has long been one of the most interesting prospects from the 2019 draft. He’s custom-made for the modern NBA — a burly 6-foot-7 wing who can slide into the backup center role as needed. He can switch on defense, he keeps the floor spaced for Charlotte’s guards, and there have been hints of real playmaking upside in the past.

He’s never going to be the go-to option, but Washington’s varied skill set allows him to take what the defense gives him. Leave him alone on the perimeter and he can feast on spot-up jumpers. Leave him isolated on a smaller defender and Washington will bully his way to points in the post. He can even operate as a playmaking hub of sorts from the elbow.

If you’re looking to check boxes, not many players will check more across the board than Washington. He stuffs the stat sheet every night, he can fit with just about any personnel group, and the list of glaring weaknesses is preciously short.