After turning into the stretch forward the Wizards needed to stretch out their offense, Drew Gooden was always ready to come in and hit a three-pointer. Teams usually did not expect the former back to the basket big man being able to drain three’s, so he usually found himself wide open.
Fans loved what Gooden brought to the Wizards, and loved even more how much he contributed to the team in the playoffs. After falling in and out of the lineup throughout most of the regular season, Gooden averaged 6.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1 block, and .8 assists per game in the postseason as the first man off the bench.
After never hitting a three-pointer before in his playoff career, Gooden shot 12 for 26 from three-point range this postseason, which is .462%. Gooden’s ability to hit these shots on a consistent basis really helped Washington’s offense as it was redefined throughout the postseason.
Next season, Gooden will be a stretch forward once again, whether it is in Washington or another NBA city. According to Gooden, his top choice would be coming back to DC for another run at a title as a member of the Wizards.
Following From Washington Post.
“Whether I am here or somewhere else, I will continue to get better and fill this role I have taken with the Wizards. I would love for it to be here but if it is not, this is a business and I can swallow that pill too. So we will see what happens.”
Having Gooden back would certainly help Washington continue their small ball when Nene needs some rest, but if he can find a situation where he will receive more time and money, his days in DC could be coming to an end.
