Deni Avdija

Down to a final game before the Washington Wizards’ lengthy All-Star break, Deni Avdija decided to host his own All-Star festivities against the New Orleans Pelicans’ defense. In the middle of a performance of historic proportions, Avdija opts for a heat check, providing his teammate with an outlet against tight defense before pulling up for a shot clock-beating 27-foot bomb to keep the Wizards’ comeback attempt alive. Quietly one of the NBA’s most improved year-to-year talents, Avdija’s career night allowed for a box score that included 43 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, one block, and six 3-pointers. Despite the losing effort on February 14, 2024, the-23-year-old afforded the Wizards with a lot to love, becoming the franchise’s youngest player to hit the 40-point plateau since 2013.