When the two top picks of a draft go head-to-head, narratives will be immediately spun. The rookie rivalry between Azzi Fudd and Olivia Miles has been no different, especially given the All-Star level at which the latter is performing. However, while many now consider Miles to be a generational talent, it is hard to believe she would be allowed to have the same influence alongside the Dallas Wings superstar Paige Bueckers -- and that is the true reason the franchise selected Fudd.
Olivia Miles continued her scintillating form as the Minnesota Lynx breezed to a 100-76 victory over Azzi Fudd and the Dallas Wings, recording 24 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists. In comparison, Fudd could only muster six points and two steals, leading to comparisons of which first-year guard Dallas should have selected.
If analysts draw their conclusions from the most attractive statistics, then yes, the Wings have made a mistake in not drafting Miles. The 23-year-old is averaging an impressive 17.2 points, five rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, while shooting 51.9% from the floor.
Nevertheless, context is everything in a discussion like this, and the conversation should not be based on numbers alone. The less prominent offensive role of Fudd must be considered.
Fudd has less freedom to thrive in Dallas
Miles undoubtedly stumbled into a better situation than Fudd; the Lynx possess a wealth of experience and talent. Additionally, with Napheesa Collier yet to feature this season, the Lynx rookie has been allowed more freedom to lead the charge for Minnesota -- Fudd has not been given the same luxury.
Frankly, Fudd was never selected to be the Wings' newest superstar. Dallas is constructing a roster that benefits Paige Bueckers. With this being the case, they need players who enhance Bueckers' attributes and allow her to make a championship run sooner rather than later. While Miles' numbers would suggest that she would make this ambition a reality, it is hard to believe that she would be content with playing second fiddle to a teammate of similar age.
Throughout her time at UConn and during her short stint in Dallas, Azzi Fudd has already proven that her main priority is to make her team better -- even if that does require her to sit in the shadow of Paige Bueckers. Fudd's efficiency from deep and her defensive prowess make her the perfect piece in the Wings' jigsaw.
It should also be stated that Fudd is more than just another name on the teamsheet; she is having a fantastic year on the floor herself and is growing in stature with each passing performance (except for the Minnesota Lynx matchup).
The versatile guard has averaged 12 points and 1.2 steals per game, while shooting 56.3% from the floor and 41.7% from 3-point range. Compared to Miles, Fudd is putting up these numbers while taking around three fewer shots per game and not running point on half as many possessions.
Inevitably, context will be thrown out the window when it comes to analysing the performances of first-year stars. Statistics will be used as a battering to tear down rookies who are performing at a good level. Yes, Olivia Miles may be running away with the Rookie of the Year award, but when utilising a draft pick, fit matters, and Azzi Fudd is the perfect fit with the Dallas Wings.
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