Washington acquires another promising rookie
2024-2025 rookie Cam Whitmore is already changing NBA franchises. The wing is moving closer to home as Houston sent him to Washington D.C. in exchange for two second-round Draft picks.
A homecoming for the Maryland native
Cam Whitmore, who turns 21 this week, returns to his home region as he’s originally from Maryland. This geographical proximity comes with a major sporting opportunity: joining a rebuilding Wizards team where he can expect a more significant role.
Selected 20th overall in the 2023 NBA draft by Houston, the 6’7″ 230-pound wing never managed to establish himself in the Rockets’ rotation. Last season, he played only 16.2 minutes per game across 51 games, with just three starts. His statistics of 9.4 points on 44.4% shooting (35.5% from 3-point range) and 3.0 rebounds per game don’t reflect his true potential.
Promising performances despite limited playing time
Whitmore proved his offensive efficiency when given the opportunity. He notably scored 34 points on 13/19 shooting against the Los Angeles Lakers on April 11, and delivered a complete performance of 27 points, 11 rebounds, three blocks and two steals against the Oklahoma City Thunder on March 3. Over two seasons in Houston, he averaged 10.8 points per game.
The Rockets worked with Whitmore and his WME Basketball representatives in recent weeks to find him a new home. Houston had several offers on the table but wanted to ensure the young player would go to a team offering him a real chance to flourish in his career.
This transaction is part of a busy summer for both franchises. The Wizards have been active with the acquisition of CJ McCollum and Kelly Olynyk from the New Orleans Pelicans, while Houston made a splash by acquiring Kevin Durant and adding Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela. For Whitmore, this new step represents an opportunity to prove his worth in an environment more conducive to his development.
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