Wizards monitoring Sarr’s injury progress, Carrington draws Carlisle’s praise, Whitmore awaits return, Keefe tries zone defense
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Washington Wizards head coach Brian Keefe said Sunday that rookie center Alex Sarr remains limited to off-court rehabilitation as he works back from the adductor strain that has sidelined him for six games.
Speaking with reporters, Keefe noted that the team still views the soft-tissue issue as minor but is proceeding cautiously because such injuries can be unpredictable. The 19-year-old has been a rare bright spot for the 4-20 club, averaging 19.1 points, 8.6 rebounds and 2.0 blocks while leading the roster in all three categories.
Indiana head coach Rick Carlisle offered unsolicited praise for second-year guard Bub Carrington after Washington’s 108-89 victory over the Pacers. “He’s a terrific young player … skilled, big, versatile,” Carlisle said, adding that the guard’s shooting “is the real deal.” Carrington, who started 57 games last season, has struggled to carve out a steady role this year but has averaged 17.3 points and 7.3 assists over his last three starts.
Cam Whitmore has missed the past three contests as a coach’s decision. Keefe initially said the swingman sat for not meeting team standards, then clarified that he was using the time to evaluate other lineups. “Cam’s gonna be back in the mix at some point,” the coach said, pointing to strong recent performances from Will Riley and Jamir Watkins. Riley logged 12 points in 22.5 minutes against Indiana.
Keefe has also begun sprinkling in zone looks to jolt the league’s 30th-ranked defense. “We wanted to mix up our coverages,” he said after Washington held the Pacers to 89 points—the first time this season the Wizards have kept an opponent below 107.
Source: Hoops Rumors
