Crittenton One of Few Positives for Wiz

Second-year guard trying to find place in the league

Jarvaris Crittenton's numbers aren't going to wow you, even after his minutes were upped to 16.7 per game in 2008 from 5.5 in 2007.

However, what most don't notice about Crittenton is something that won't show up in the stat sheet -- his patience. Unfortunately, the Wizards are so bad that many are not witnessing a player who could play a key role in the team's future.

The second-year point guard plays to his strengths, which right now is to penetrate into the paint and create for his teammates. Crittenton has also focused on pushing the ball up the court in transition. He's showed brief glimpses of recklessness, but has committed less than one turnover per outing.

The former McDonald's All-American won't set the nets ablaze (he has a 17.9 FG% on jump shots), but his 6'5" height and defensive potential may allow him to play alongside Gilbert Arenas ... whenever that may be.

Crittenton is clearly a work in progress, which is a more ideal position to be in than a downtrodden team with no light at the end of the tunnel in sight. Problem is, he plays for that downtrodden team.

If Crittenton stays positive, takes advantage of the environment-induced minutes provided, and keeps himself from being poisoned by mounting losses, he'll solidify a spot in the rotation for years to come.

Kyle Weidie also writes Truth About It and contributes to Bullets Forever, both Washington Wizards blogs. Because of this, some may call him self-loathing.

Copyright NBCSP - NBC Sports
Contact Us