The Washington Wizards came into the season with hopes of making the playoffs for the first time since 2017. They have acquired former MVP Russell Westbrook to pair him with star Shooting Guard Bradley Beal. This pairing seems to be working but not getting the results expected from many coming into this season. Watching the Wizards play Westbrook knows the Wizards are Beal’s team and allows him to lead while averaging a triple double. One of the biggest issues is that the Wizards lack a consistent 3rd scorer and are terrible on defense.
The Wizards are currently 2-7 this season after losing to the Boston Celtics on Friday night. This includes two straight in which Beal scored 60 and 41 points. The Wizards are currently ranked 28th in defense rating. In addition, the Wizards opponents shoot about 40% from the 3-point line. The combination of a negative defensive rating and giving up the 2nd highest 3-point percentage in the NBA is a recipe for disaster. It comes as no surprise that with these two red flags that the Wizards give up the most points per game at 122 points. If the Wizards want to turn this season around to maybe fight for a potential 8th seed in playoffs, they must sure up that defense especially from 3. In today’s NBA the 3- point shot is a very crucial part of the game.
I believe the Wizards will continue to struggle as Westbrook tries to play through a dislocated finger. Also, Davis Bertans their big-time free agent acquisition must shoot closer to the 40% form 3-point range like he did last season. My prediction is that the Wizards will some how piece it together and come down the stretch of the season they will sneak into the playoffs as an 8th seed.
No comments:
Post a Comment