Nov 12, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Washington Wizards shooting guard Glen Rice Jr. (14) warms up before the game against the Dallas Mavericks at the American Airlines Center. The Mavericks defeated the Wizards 105-95. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

After a short rehab stint with the Iowa Energy of the NBA Developmental League, the Washington Wizards have recalled Glen Rice Jr.

After averaging 24.3 pts & 10.3 rebs in a 3-game D-League stint with Iowa Energy, Glen Rice Jr. has rejoined #wizards in Oakland — Michael Lee (@MrMichaelLee) January 28, 2014

Rice suffered an injury to his wrist and underwent minor surgery to repair it. Washington hasn’t utilized the D-League with their own players in a few seasons, but they decided to send Rice down for a rehab stint. Rice was the first NBA player to get drafted out of the D-League, so he was already familiar with the process prior to getting sent down.

Washington hasn’t gotten a lot of scoring from their bench this season, but that could potentially change if Rice gets a chance to play in the next few games. I got a chance to watch Rice play for the Energy in his debut, and he did look a lot more comfortable than I expected. He scored 29 points in his last game, including 6 of 10 made 3-point shots. Instead of just showcasing his ability to score the ball, Rice stuffed the stat sheet, putting up some big numbers in the rebounding and assist departments as well.

Scott Rafferty, of SB Nation’s Ridiculous Upside, wrote a bit about Rice’s last game in the NBDL:

And in his third game, which took place in Erie last night, he had his best game to date, pouring in 29 points on 9-for-15 shooting from the field and 6-for-10 from three point range. He failed to continue his streak of consecutive double-doubles, but made up for it by padding the stats, finishing with seven rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals. He also led the team with the best plus/minus (+9).

I’m glad Rice was able to get some of his rhythm back in the D-League and I’m hoping Randy Wittman gives him a chance during Washington’s tough string of upcoming games. Before getting hurt, Rice cracked Washington’s rotation, and even made his first NBA start with Bradley Beal being sidelined with injury. We all knew Rice could score the ball, but I was really surprised about his willingness to contribute on the defensive side of the floor. His man-to-man defense looked really good, and Randy Wittman has played guys who make an effort to pressure the ball.

Rice should be able to contribute in Washington and he’ll join the Wizards against the Warriors tonight.