Washington Wizards fans may be wondering why Cam Whitmore received a DNP during the team’s 131-116 home loss to the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night. According to reports, Whitmore’s poor work ethic has put him in the proverbial doghouse of head coach Brian Keefe.
“Inside the organization, the concern has been the day-to-day work. Amid a 3-19 start to the season, Washington has emphasized establishing firm practice habits and a consistent approach across its young roster, and Whitmore has not consistently met those expectations,” Grant Afseth of RG explained.
“If you’re trying to establish yourself in the NBA, you need to show up to practice,” the source told RG. “As public scrutiny intensifies around Cam Whitmore’s recent ‘Did Not Play’ designation and shrinking role, much of the outside discussion has centered on visible moments — body language, defensive lapses, or shot selection.”
With Whitmore’s role shrinking, the Washington Wizards have given Will Riley and Justin Champagnie more playing time in the past few games.
Washington Wizards News: Will Riley reflects on increased playing time
As mentioned, Will Riley has received more playing time in the past few matches. Against the Atlanta Hawks last weekend, the Washington Wizards swingman put up a career-high 15 points on 6-for-12 shooting from the field in 19 minutes off the bench.
“All the coaching staff is really close to me. They always talk to me, always uplift me,” Riley said via ClutchPoints’ Joshua Valdez. “Coach (Brian) Keefe is always telling me, ‘Good job.’ I feel like he helps a lot of ways. Boosts my confidence up, even when I come off the floor.”
“He wants to win, and as a player who also wants to win, you feed off a coach who wants to win. So I’ve been feeding off him, and his energy, and that’s been helping me a lot too,” he added.
