Before the 2021 trade deadline, Daniel Gafford still didn't know where he would go. During his playing days with the Bulls, his playing time was extremely inconsistent, with more and less playing time, but he never thought about going to another team.
However, when he came home from walking the dog and saw two missed calls on his phone, one from the Bulls and one from his agent, Gafford knew something was wrong, so he refreshed the news and learned that he was going to play in Washington.
"This is bittersweet news for me, and the future is uncertain. I originally expected to stay in Chicago for the entire season. Although the rotation has come and gone, I am trying to stay as optimistic as possible."
The three-way trade between the Wizards, Bulls and Celtics was a small incident before the trade deadline, but it unexpectedly created new opportunities for Gafford.
Gafford came to the Wizards more than a month ago and averaged 10.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, especially withRussell WestbrookandBradley BealPlaying together, there are more opportunities to score easily, including alley-oops. Even Beal said that Gafford is the best teammate he has ever had at alley-oops. "No matter how bad my pass is, he can catch it."
Rim-protecting defense is another energy that Gafford brings to the Wizards. He has a height of 6 feet 10 inches and a wingspan of 7 feet 2 inches. Coupled with his explosive athletic ability, he has a blocking and interception per36 of 3.6 and 36 respectively. 1.3 times.
"His hard work and energy are what we rely on for bench energy," Wizards head coach Scott Brooks said. "He bounces and flies and can always affect the game from various angles."
Spring players of this level are a rare type for the Wizards. The last one was JaVale McGee, and now with Westbrook and Gafford, it is equivalent to finding a pair of partners who can trigger each other.
Gafford was selected by the Bulls in the second round of 2019, but his coaching staff always felt that his defense was flawed and lost trust. However, they did not expect that after coming to the Wizards, Gafford proved that his defense has an impact.
However, Gafford still needs to improve. He is too eager to block the hot pot and is easily deceived by fake moves or fouled. He also lacks offensive methods.
After coming to the Wizards, Brooks especially strengthened Gafford's basic movements and got rid of his bad habit of often pressing down when defending at the basket. He was only allowed to straighten his arms. "I told him that he didn't have to block every ball. As long as it can interfere with the opponent." Now Gafford is increasingly restraining his impulse, and his eyes are not only on dunks and hot pot.
But facing the upcoming play-offs, Brooks tried to simplify Gafford's work. The offense is responsible for hitting the basket after pick-and-rolls, and the defense is to guard the penalty area. Just stay efficient in the areas you are good at.
