The NBA playoffs always bring unexpected storylines and breakout performances. As the stakes get higher, new stars emerge and certain veteran players solidify their reputation as winning, playoff-level players. There are two former Wizards who are doing exactly that this season: Rui Hachimura and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope.
After being acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers mid-season, Rui Hachimura has played a crucial role in the Lakers’ unexpected rise in the Western Conference standings and a deep run in the playoffs. For a player with very limited playoff experience, Hachimura’s ability to take his game to the next level in high-intensity match-ups has been one of the most surprising developments in the postseason.