UnkleWheez DC Sports Fan

The Beginning of a Long Off-Season

2013-07-01T19:28:00.000-04:00

I am totally thrilled with what the Wizards did in the draft. In selecting Otto Porter and Glen Rice Jr, they have gotten their off season off to a great start. I don't put too much stock in Draft Grades, but the Wizards got good grades on their draft.

Free agency is beginning. The team, in my opinion, has a few needs they need to address. They need a back up point guard, a power forward (a stretch 4 is what the buzz is about), and to resign Martel Webster.

Webster is in DC and it looks like he may be getting a deal in the next few days. This is good news because he is such a big part of the locker room and he is a good spot up shooter. He fits on this team. His maturity early on in the year helped the team keep their heads up during the terrible start. There are some that think Martel isn't needed anymore. I do not agree at all. By the end of the season he could be one of the best 6th men in the league.

I am not sure how the PG and back up big man situations will pan out. Many rumors are out there. Antawn Jamison, Chris Copeland, Darren Collison, Eric Maynor and others have been rumored to be sought after by the team. I don't know who would be the best fits, But I am happy the team is actively trying to find the right people to fit into the team. I have started to gain confidence in the front office. So I have to let them follow though with their process and see what happens.

What I am most looking forward to though, it the Summer League. From July 12 - 22 (If they last to the championship) We will get a look at Tomas Satoranski, Glen Rice JR, Otto Porter, and hopefully Vesely. I will be watching closely to see how these guys look. The quest continues, I think wasington is finally on the right track.

The Nats are Heating up

2013-06-21T22:06:00.000-04:00

It is looking more and more like the Nationals are starting to find there groove. From Strasburg getting comfortable and showing his passion to Bryce coming back of the injury list. I can't say that I have been watching as closely as I would like. Being out of work and working odd jobs to pay rent is distracting. Not so much that I can't see when the Nats are turning around their fortunes.

I have had fans of other teams taunting me (playfully) about how my Nats are under performing. I say don't let your team have peaked too early. The dog days are coming and things can change real fast. Atlanta I am looking at you.

The thing I have been most looking at sport wise is the NBA Draft. Washington has a great chance to add a lot of talent in this draft. This may not be a top heavy draft, but it is a deep draft. The opposite of what they are predicting for next year. I am of the opinion that Washington should explore what they can get for next years firs round pick. If it can be used to get a young quality player explore it. Maybe they could trade their two second round picks for a first. or put all three together and get a top ten or fifteen pick.

In my mind with the first pick it will be either Porter, Noel, or Oladipo. Since I believe Porter is most likely I will start with him. Imagine we go Porter at three then trade up and can then take a chance on a Cody Zeller or Anthony Bennett or Alex Len if either falls. If they go Noel they could go after Kentavious Caldwell-Pope or another guard. I don't know they can do something. The Draft is less than a week away and I can't wait.

Jamaal Franklin #NBADraftProspect2013 #WashingtonWizards

2013-06-13T11:20:00.001-04:00

One prospect that I think would be a good fit for the Wizards, depending on if they trade up into the first round and he is available. Jamaal Franklin could be the type of guy that adds a different dimension to the team.Here is a video scouting report.

Also to get a better idea about him, this is an interview with NBA Draft Insider.

I have made it known that I want Otto Porter, if Washington can get both I would be happy.But that scenario isn't very likely. For Washington to get Franklin, more likely Porter was taken earlier and they took Noel or Bennett (I hope Noel if no Porter) and Franklin would be a great scenario. The draft is getting closer and the Wizards need to not mess this important off-season up.

Otto Porter NBA Draft Prospect

2013-05-24T08:46:00.002-04:00

This is a series on NBA Draft Prospects that the Washington Wizards might be interested in. This will be a very important off season for the Wizards as next year heads will roll if the team doesn't meet expectations. Victor Oladio, Jamelle Hagins, and Anthony Bennett. Up next is every ones favorite Georgetown SF Otto Porter.

Position: SF
Height: 6'9
Weight: 198
School: Georgetown
Age: 20 (6/3/93)
Year: Sophomore

There is a lot to like about Otto, and quite a bit that can be worrisome also. I like his size and length. He has a 7'1.5" wingspan, wish he uses to grab rebounds, steal passes and harass shooters. He uses his length to his advantage, but will need to improve on his very average lateral quickness and strength to be a true lock down defender. He can still be a play maker on defense in the meantime though.

He has a great Basketball IQ. Known for making the right pass at the right time and having good off ball movement. He isn't an offensive dynamo that can create a lot of offense, but he knows what he can do and doesn't try to do things he shouldn't. What he is good at though is at being a good spot up shooter. He work hard on that obviously since his freshman season. He shot is more reliable and he has a much quicker release.

What I really like about this young man is that he is high motor. He makes plays that make winning easier. hustles for loose balls, grabs rebounds, and disrupts the oppositions offense.

I really think Porter would be a good fit with the current team. Together with Wall and Beal, their chemistry could be something to see. There are weaknesses to his package but i think they can be improved. He is still very young a has a lot of room to grow his game, even though he is already polished.

The Wizards are Definately on the Rise

2013-05-22T08:35:00.000-04:00

Now that the NBA Lottery has happened, the Wizards know where they will be picking. They were slated to pick 8th overall, but this time a monumental sports team was not screwed by the draft. The Wizards will now pick 3rd and the speculation has already begun as to what to do now.

There are a few different players they could target.They have to look at Noel, because anything can happen in a wide open draft. Otto Porter is the most logical guy in my opinion. Other guys to look at are Victor Oladipo, Anthony Bennett, Alex Len, Shabazz Muhammad, and maybe even Ben McLemore. I have already done a draft preview of some of those guys but now I can zero in on more guys on this list.

This is great news for the Wizards as they now have more options to improve their team. In addition to the high pick the Wizards have two second round picks, a couple of expiring contracts, a trade exemption, and some redundant young players as assets. I am not advocating that they trade their draft pick though. I would prefer they keep their top pick and then combine some combination of the second rounders, expiring contracts, and other players to get another impact player.

At this point, I am leaning toward Otto Porter. Len scares me due to his ankle injury. Big men and leg injuries scare me. I like Noel also but i am scared of his injury also but not as much as Len's. Anthony Bennett intrigues me, but he want to be a three and doesn't play defense as well as he could. Porter is a stud on defense and I think he could combine quite well with Wall and Beal.

The off season is just starting, if things go well the Wizards could be in line to make some great additions to their team. If things go well (Nene gets healthy, Beal and Wall improve without hurting themselves, and the right additions are added) the playoffs won't be the goal. Competing for a championship can be the goal. Yeah I am dreaming big.

Washington Redskins 2013 Draft Review

2013-04-29T21:10:00.000-04:00

"I'll be the steal of the draft." That is what Phillip Thomas said. Many Skins fans the team did a great job of collecting many steals throughout the draft.Coming into the draft the biggest question mark or weakness was the secondary. Even though the team already re-signed Hall and signed EJ Biggers, I expected the team to focus heavily on the secondary.

Three of the seven picks were used to address the secondary, two safeties and a corner. Phillip Thomas and Bacarri Rambo are the safeties; David Amerson is the corner.The thing that each of these guys have is a history of making plays. Since Amerson was taken first I will start with him.

David Amerson is a 6'1" corner that has a history of making plays. He had 19 college ints, 13 in his sophomore year. Phillip Thomas is a 6'1 safety that led the nation in int this season with 8. Barcarri Rambo is 6'0 and has 16 career ints. Each of these guys can be considered steals and they were all ranked to go higher than the Skins got them. These guys provide something that the Skins need more of, playmakers. The safety position should be 100% better than last year as guys either get healthy, off suspension, or earn roll as rookies.

Another thing that happened last year was how the offense fell off once Fred Davis was injured. In the third round they picked Jordan Reed. He needs to improve his blocking, but he is a weapon that can help the offense. John Keim had this quote.

“He’s a real athletic kid,” said Russ Lande, the college scouting director of the Montreal Alouettes and the NFL Draft analyst for the National Football Post. “He’s not a big kid, but he’s quick and very quick at getting to full speed. He has deceptive speed. He has soft natural hands. He’s a real intriguing guy as a receiving option and you can use him around in different alignments. But he’s so little if he tries to block he’ll get knocked on his [butt] a lot. But he’s so natural catching the ball and moving in space. He does good things.”

They also added to running backs in Chris Thompson and Jawan Jamison. I won't even second guess these two as Shanahan has so much success with RB's taking in late rounds. If he thinks these two have a chance, I doubt anyone will really question it.

That leaves us with Brandon Jenkins. He is an olb that rushes the passer. This team can't get too many guys like that. With Orakpo down last year the defense really suffered. Kerrigan got doubled relentlessly and it wasn't good for anyone. Jenkins is another value pick as he was projected to go in the second round and the Skins got him in the third. With 33.5 sacks in two of his seasons, he has the ability to get after the QB. He does have injury questions, but he should be healthy and the extra quality pass rusher is only a benefit.

Shanahan believes the Redskins are a better team now after the draft than they were before. It is hard for me to disagree with him. Now I can't wait for training camp to see how this secondary shakes out. As far as I am concerned, the draft couldn't have gone better.

Anthony Bennett NBA Draft Prospect 2013

2013-04-19T13:16:00.000-04:00

Note: I wrote this before the Wizards moved up in the draft.

Position: PF
Height: 6'7
Weight: 239
School: UNLV
Age: 20 (3/14/93)
Year: Freshman

One of the things that Wall abd Beal say the Wizards need is a stretch 4. The best guy in the draft for that is Anthony Bennett. Even though he is from Brampton, Ontario, Canada, he may be an offensive part that turn the Wizards into a humming machine.

Where do I start. There is a lot to like about Bennett, but also plenty to worry about. Offensively he could bring a whole new dimension. He is great finishing in the paint and he has a good shot that has range out to the 3 line. He might be a bit of a shot jacker, but if he stay in the confines of the team he could be a huge piece. One part of his offensive game that is missing is his lack of a post game. That wouldn't be the worst think of the Wizards though as he could be match up with NeNe or Seraphin. His range would help spacing and make everyone else better. He also has a wide variety of ways to score. He could really benefit from playing with Wall, Beal, and NeNe. Another big Plus in his favor is his offensive rebounding. One the the things that caries over best from college to NBA is rebounding.

Fear the Sword's Sam Vecenie had this to say about him.

"But really, Bennett's offensive game is extremely strong for a freshman. His touch around the rim is very strong (73% there), plus he's got range out to about 22 feet. From beyond the three-point line, Bennett shot 38% on about 100 attempts, so his range is very legitimate. Along with that, he gets a lot of put-back points on offensive rebounding, where his long arms and strong sense of positioning gives him a chance to get easy points around the basket. This will be an effective tool that he needs to carry over to the NBA. He's can throw down dunks with the best of them, showing off power that few prospects can match. Finally, he gets to the line at an excellent rate, taking the fifth-most free throws in the Mountain West..."

"His overall rebounding acumen is solid overall, too. He shows excellent box-out technique for a young player, and he uses his low center of gravity to push players out of the way. Also, he has excellent hands to snatch all of the balls that come his way. This is the skill that he should be able to hang his hat in the NBA and continue to be an effective player as his career progresses."

I know many will have problems with his height, but I think his 7'1 wingspan makes up for that. The main red flag I have with this guy is his defense. Defense is about effort and taking pride in stopping your opponent. I don't see that and it worries me. I am not sure his offense is enough to make up for this. Obviously I think he has the tools to be a good defender I just don't know that he wants it.

It isn't up to me but if Bennett is available I would go for him. I have to think he would buy in to the culture of the team and defend. At least I would hope so. If he plays defense with pride and intelligence, he could be the steal of the draft.

Edit: After moving up in the draft. I don't think it would be wise for the Wizards to go for Bennett. I am so afraid of things that look like red flags to me. He wants to be more of a 3, doesn't give a care to defense, and loves to jack up shots. If the front office can real him in ok, but to me he is a huge gamble that can set the franchise back.

Jamelle Hagins NBA Draft Prospect 2013

2013-04-11T11:13:00.002-04:00

This is a series on NBA Draft Prospects that the Washington Wizards might be interested in. This will be a very important off season for the Wizards as next year heads will roll if the team doesn't meet expectations. The first in this series can be found here. Up next second round prospect, Jamelle Hagins.

Position: PF
Height: 6'9
Weight: 230
School: Delaware
Age October 19,1990
Year: Senior

Yes, another hometown guy. He is from Roanoke, VA and went to Delaware. Jamelle is climbing up the draft boards. His defense and rebounding is what got my attention. But he also seems to be a high character guy as well. There is a video here where he talks about his Delaware team and you can see a little about how he is.

This is a video of his highlights from a year ago.

He is the 2013 CAA Defensive player of the year. If will be crucial for the Wizards to add a big man in this draft. Hopefully someone that will be a defensive presence and hopefully add something on offense.

Hoopsville.com in an article about Hagins explains his progression.

"Hagins got over-powered physically at times as a freshman, but showed signs that better things would come. He hauled down 5.3 rebounds and blocked a shot in 22 minutes a game as a freshman, starting 25 of the team’s 30 games...

"As a sophomore, Hagins broke out, leading the CAA in blocked shots and hauling down 7.3 boards a game, making the conference’s All-Defensive team. He improved his offensive numbers as well, but that was still far from his strong suit. He embraced the fact that he could impact the game defensively while he went to work on improving his offense. He has always had a great feel for playing defense, and not just blocking shots; he understands rotations and positioning, and those are big reasons for his success...

"Hagins made steady progress offensively as a junior, and now as a senior is a bona fide offensive threat. He makes post moves to score that he didn’t make earlier in his career and has surpassed 1,000 career points. Now Delaware’s all-time leading rebounder, he also recently surpassed 1,000 career rebounds. While the offense is better and he continues to work on it, he freely admits that he still likes playing defense more."

I don't know if Jamelle is the guy, but i am intrigued. I would like to see him get a look when the Wizards are doing theri workouts and interviews. Seniors get overlooked these days, Maybe he could be a diamond in the rough.

Victor Oladipo NBA Draft Prospect 2013

2013-04-09T15:43:00.001-04:00

This is a series on NBA Draft Prospects that the Washington Wizards might be interested in. This will be a very important off season for the Wizards as next year heads will roll if the team doesn't meet expectations. The first prospect to examine is Victor Oladipo.

Position: SG/SF
Height: 6'5
Weight: 210
School: Indiana
Age: 20 (5/4/1992)
Year: Junior

The first thing you are thinking is, "You only want this guy because he is from Upper Marlboro and went to DeMatha". Everyone knows I like hometown guys. That is not the reason I chose to make him the first prospect in my series. While it didn't hurt. I chose him because today he announced that he will be entering the NBA 2013 Draft.

Take a look at his stats for his career. I am not sure what happened during his sophomore year but he really rose his stock this year. Terry Hutchins quoted a scout in an article earlier today.

"He's ready for the NBA right now," a scout said. "I think he can help teams because he has a motor. He can defend, and his offense has gotten drastically better, He plays bigger than his size."
"...His style of play is better suited for the NBA because of the way the game is officiated with limited touching. His speed gives him the clear advantage."

I am going to start first with the things I like about him. Victor is very athletic and and he loves to run the floor. That would play right into how the Wizards like to play. John Wall loves to run the break. A large part of his offense comes in transition since he runs the floor so well and also fills the lane correctly on the break.

He is very efficient because is is very hard to keep him out of the paint. He doesn't need to dominate the ball in order to drive to the hoop, If he gets the ball in the right spot he just takes off past his defender. We have seen how difficult the Wizards can be to defend with Wall and Beal. The dimension he add could be like the missing link.

His defense is what I like about him the most. The Wizards are better because they have been good on the defensive side of the ball. For them to succeed, that must not change. Anyone that comes in must contribute to that good defense. Oladipo is a difference maker on defense. He can guard multiple positions, and comes away with a lot of steals. He plays with intensity and has a non stop motor. He uses his athleticism on defense and is a disruptive force.

He also rebounds the ball well for his position. That is a stat that translates well into the NBA. With him and Beal helping rebound, if our big men do their part the Wizards can be a top defensive and rebounding team.

His offense has improved this year. He is good at catch and shoot and has improved from the 3. If he can get his 3 to stay consistent. The other parts of his offensive game should do him and his team just well.

He has to have some weaknesses, I don't want to gloss them over. He is not good at handling the ball, he can't create his own offense, and no one knows if his improved shooting will hold up. That is it. For me those are things I can live with if he runs the floor well, finishes well, and plays defense as advertised. If he can play the SF spot his ball handling won't be as important. He also should have to isolate much with how this team is constructed.

Overall I like this guy as a prospect. I am not saying we should get rid of Martell Webster (please no), but I think someone that can be a difference maker has to be a prospect to look out for.While it is still early in this series, If this guy is available when the Wizards pick, he has to be considered.

Nice

2013-03-16T21:48:00.000-04:00

Tonight's Opponent: Los Angeles Clippers

2013-02-04T15:23:00.001-05:00

L.A. Clippers(34-15) vs Washington Wizards(11-35)

Tale of the Tape

Stats	WAS	LAC
PPG	90.8	100.41
OPP. PPG	95.87	93.61
FG%	0.421	0.471
OPP. FG%	0.439	0.435
3PT FG%	0.336	0.35
OPP. 3PT FG%	0.346	0.371
FT%	0.733	0.706
RPG	43.41	41.86
OPP. RPG	45.41	39.88
APG	21.48	23.33
OPP APG	21.89	21.61
TO	15.4	14.4

Stats courtesy NBA.com

Likely Starters

Starters	Wizards	Clippers
PG	John Wall	Eric Bledsoe
SG	Garrett Temple	Willie Green
SF	Martell Webster	Caron Butler
PF	Nene	Blake Griffin
C	Emeka Okafor	Deandre Jordan

Tonight’s game is the second and final meeting of the season between the Washington Wizards
and Los Angeles Clippers. The Clippers won the first meeting, 94-87, on January 19th at Staples
Center in Los Angeles.

The Clippers has lost 6 of the last 8 games. And they are only 4-4 on the road verses Eastern Conference teams. They are in the middle of their longest road trip since the 2010-11 season when they went 2-9. Don't get too encouraged though, as the Clippers have won the last 8 times they played the Wizards.

The Wizards have lost the last four and desperately need a win. They have struggled since Beal have been out and his impact on this team is obvious. They are still in need of more talent but tonight, it about getting a much needed win. come back soon Beal, but dont rush.

Predicted Winner
The Clippers. As much as I hope the Wizards win, I don't see it happening. Beal is a very big part of this team and he is missed on this team.

Clippers 91 Wizards 90

Predicted Player of the Game
Blake Griffin. This is tough for me. I am not a fan of Griffin. i wanted the Wizards to get the number one pick that year, but we didn't. I think he is overrated, but maybe I am bitter (who knows). I think he has a huge game tonight.

Tonight's Opponent: Chicago Bulls

2013-01-26T18:25:00.000-05:00

Chicago Bulls (26-16) @ Washington Wizards (10-31)

Tale of the Tape

Stats	WAS	CHI
PPG	91.49	93.83
OPP. PPG	96.78	91.19
FG%	0.421	0.439
OPP. FG%	0.439	0.426
3PT FG%	0.342	0.359
OPP. 3PT FG%	0.348	0.329
FT%	0.733	0.78
RPG	43.71	44
OPP. RPG	45.83	40.91
APG	21.54	22.81
OPP APG	21.71	18.17
TO	15.4	14.8

Stats Courtesy NBA.com

Tonight’s game is the second of four meetings between the Washington Wizards and Chicago
Bulls. The Bulls won the first meeting, 87-77, on December 29th in Chicago. The Bulls on the other hand have won 6 of the last 7 games. Both teams are playing back to back games.

This is "put up or shut up time" for the Wizards. They have played much better lately, but this is a big Eastern Conference match-up. This match-up is likely too much though. Wizards still have to play these guys two more times this season. This is a big opportunity for them to make a statement.

Again though, the Bulls have only lost once this season on the road to a Eastern Conference team. So, a win tonight will not be likely. If they can upset the Bulls, this team can feed on the momentum

Predicted Winner
I hate to say it, but I think the Bulls win this. The Wizards have gotten better, but they still don't have a convincing win. A win that tells the NBA they belong. While I am hoping it comes, I have to see it to believe it.

Bulls 94 Wizards 90

Predicted Player of the Game
I have gone back and forth in my head on this one. It is going to take a near miracle to win this. I am going with the bench.

Tonight's Opponent: Minnesota Timberwolves

2013-01-25T16:04:00.000-05:00

Timberwolves (17-22) @ Wizards (9-31)

Tale of the Tape

Stats	WAS	MINN
PPG	90.93	94.4
OPP. PPG	96.68	96.3
FG%	0.417	0.43
OPP. FG%	0.439	0.456
3PT FG%	0.339	0.292
OPP. 3PT FG%	0.35	0.359
FT%	0.736	0.743
RPG	43.93	44.31
OPP. RPG	45.78	40.67
APG	21.35	21.76
OPP APG	21.58	21.82
TO	15.4	15.2

Stats courtesy of NBA.com

Tonight’s game is the first of two meetings between the Washington Wizards and Minnesota

Timberwolves. The Timberwolves won last season’s only meeting between the two teams, 93-72

at Verizon Center. Last year the Timberwolves beat the Wizards' first in D.C. since Dec. 12, 2003,

ending a seven-game drought.

The Wizards are in a delicate point in the season. The west coast trip went better than many feared but not as good as anyone wanted. A few more losses can kill any momentum this team is trying to build. To make matters worse, Beal is nursing a sore wrist. This is close to a must win for a team climbing a steep hill.

The Wolves have lost 7 of their last 8 games. They are 2-7 on the road against Eastern Conference teams. They have seven guys on the injury list. This is hopefully a game the Wizards can take.

Predicted Winner

This is put up or shut up time for the Wizards. The Wolves are a hurt team right now. If Washington doesn't win this, look for the season to go south.

Washington Wizards 92 Minnesota 89

Predicted Player of the Game

John Wall: I think this is time for him to make a statement.

Tonight's Opponent: Utah Jazz

2013-01-23T12:50:00.000-05:00

Wizards 9-30 @ Jazz 22-19

Tale of the Tape

Stats	WAS	UTA
PPG	91	98.7
OPP. PPG	96.8	98.6
FG%	0.418	0.448
OPP.FG%	0.439	0.459
3PT FG%	0.338	0.373
OPP. 3PT FG%	0.352	0.376
FT%	0.736	0.768
RPG	43.74	42.4
OPP. RPG	45.64	40.8
APG	21.4	23
TO	15.4	15

Stats Courtesy NBA.com

Tonight’s game is the second and last meetings between the Washington Wizards and the Utah
Jazz. The Jazz won the first meeting, 83-76, on November 17th at Verizon Center. This is a much different team though, as the Wizards are finally healthy. As usual, it was a cold spell that put the Wizards away. They were down by 2 with about 8 minutes to play, Utah would then go on an 11-2 run. Game over.

The Wizards are playing their best basketball of the season. After Jordan Crawford nailed the 3 at the buzzer to beat Portland, I am looking for this team to build on their momentum. Tonight's game could be the win that will give them that momentum. It would be huge to have a winning record on this trip. Maybe a successful west coast road trip can lead to the winning streak.

Utah has won 7 of their last nine and are coming off a nice break. They last beat Cleveland on the 19th. Randy Foye, of Wizards fame, had 20 points in the win hitting 4 three pointers. Derrick Favors tied his season-high of 19 points along with grabbing eight boards.

Predicted Player of the Game
Bradley Beal struggled in his last game. So I am going to gamble on him. I don't think the rookie struggle for long. With Crawford back in form, I expect tonight the be the first time we see this team clicking on all cylinders Well almost, when sharp shooter Cartier Martin returns, things could get interesting.

Predicted Winner
Washington 98 Jazz 91

Tonight's Opponent: Portland Trail Blazers

2013-01-21T08:13:00.003-05:00

Wizards 8-30 @ Portland 20-20

Tale Of the Tape

Stats	WAS	POR
PPG	90.8	97.1
OPP. PPG	96.8	99.3
FG%	0.417	0.434
OPP.FG%	0.438	0.461
3PT FG%	0.336	0.338
OPP. 3PT FG%
FT%	0.736	0.771
OPP. FT%
RPG	43.7	42.2
OPP. RPG
APG	21.3	20.6
TO	15.4	14.9

Stats Courtesy of NBA.com

Tonight’s game is the second of two meetings between the Washington Wizards and Portland
Trail Blazers. The Wizards won the first meeting, 84-82, on November 28th at Verizon Center.

After a tough loss to the Clippers, The Wizards continue their west coast road trip in Portland. With the way the the team has been playing, this can hopefully be a win.

After beating Miami on January 10 and winning 4 straight, Portland has lost their last 5 games. They do keep their games close as their last 9 games have been decided by 6 points or less.

Predicted Player of the Game
I am going to go with John Wall. He has been looking better in each game. As he legs get under him, his shot is going to start to fall for him a lot more. I hope the NBA is ready.

Predicted Winner
Washington 101 Portland 97

Tonight's Opponent: The Denver Nuggets

2013-01-18T17:40:00.000-05:00

Tonight’s game is the first of two meetings between the Washington Wizards and Denver Nuggets. The two teams will meet again on February 22nd in Washington. The Nuggets won last
season’s only meeting, 108-104, on January 20, 2012 at Verizon Center.

TALE OF THE TAPE

WAS STATS DEN
90.3 PPG 102.6
96.6 OPP. PPG 100.1
.415 FG % .464
.439 OPP. FG % .437
.330 3PT FG % .326
.745 FT % .683
43.7 RPG 45.9
21.2 APG 23.6
15.1 TO 15.2
Stats Courtesy of NBA.com

This is the chance for the Wizards to start a new winning streak. This is Nene's return to Denver, so this will be a special game for him. For us, this will be our first time seeing McGee. With the assist up for this team, I expect a run pretty soon. Tip off is at 9:00.

Can the Wizards Turn the Corner?

2013-01-18T09:27:00.003-05:00

The Wizards have turned a corner, but I believe they are about to turn another corner soon. They turned the first corner right before Wall returned. It helped that they started to get healthy for the first time. Now that the team is mostly healthy. There are a few things they must to to turn the other corner and start playing to their potential.

The main thing this team needs to improve on, is closing out quarters. When the pressure intensifies, they get frantic and don't play their game anymore. It has been obvious that in their biggest problem right now.

When the game is on the line, they need to stay calm, read the situation, and then execute. It sounds simple, but it is important to remember that these guys are just starting to come together and jell. I expect this to get better soon.

The next thing to focus on is defense. Down the stretch, it should be “No Layups Allowed”. Make the opposition earn their points the hard way. Send them to the line and make them make free throws. Someone needs to step up down the stretch in that role. I think it will be Booker or Singleton, or at least that would make sense.

It is almost too late to make the playoffs, but I want the wizards to make it interesting. It is important to change their perception around the league either way. A trip to the playoffs would be great. But long term, a shot at another lottery pick could be nice. For now, if these guys can turn the corner, The league had better look out.

A New Beginning

2013-01-12T11:44:00.002-05:00

That's right. The sun is finally about to rise. For the Washington Wizards, the return of John Wall is important for many different reasons. Most importantly a team can't evaluate itself correctly with out it's centerpiece. That for another conversation. Today I am focused on the fans.

For the fans, John Wall's return is like a man in the desert coming up on a spring of water. It feels long overdue. I am going to be watching tonight's game very closely. Not only for Wall, but for what this team looks like together (I hope Crawford will be able to play). It will take a few games for things to get rolling, but this is "A New Beginning" as Wall correctly labeled it.

I know quite a few fans don't think Wall good enough, or hasn't improved enough. Well now it is time to find out. I am expecting to see many opinions on him change. Van Gundy, Barkley soon they will be singing a different tune. DC is a sports hub. For the Wizards, this is a welcome new beginning.

http://www.nba.com/wizards/video/2013/01/11/Wallpractice011113wmv-2351570

John Wall to Return Soon, What Does that Mean?

2013-01-04T13:27:00.001-05:00

John Wall is expected to make his return to the Wizards soon. I feel like I am one of the few people that think this team can have a big turn-around. While i don't agree with how this team is constructed, I do think they can go on a run once Wall gets full strength.

Regardless of what happens with this team, they need Wall to come back and look good running this team. My best case scenario is for the team to come on late and win quite a few games but miss the playoff. Then the least likely part needs to happen. they would have to win the lottery and a add stud (like Bennett, Noel, or Muhammad). I don't know, I'm not a scout.

Regardless of what happens, I still feel like this team needs to be more successful in drafts, whether it is a top pick, a late first, or second round pick. They need to stop being viewed as the organization that can't get out of it's own way. I don't want to hear, "The Learners are Cheap". I am getting the feeling Monumental Sports is cheap.

If Wall is unable to return to form and continue to grow, the dark ages may well be ahead for this team. I don't have faith in this teams front office and right now I am just hoping they get lucky. Ted will keep Grunfeld here for his whole contract. To me, this is all I have to hope for at this point.

The Journey to Win Number One... ( continued again)

2012-11-26T20:02:00.002-05:00

I'm in here watching this game. I don't actually believe the Wizards will win this game, but you never know. This team needs John Wall bad. If that doesn't help this team is they have no hope.

I am almost at the point where I really want a change of leadership. Ernie Grunfeld has had more than a fair amount of time on the job. I think the way to do it is to bring in a new GM before the trade deadline. Then have him hire a good coach and let them work.

It is San Antonio 48 Washington 46. In the second quarter and the game is competitive, that is all I can ask for really.

Speaking of Eddie Jordan, he was the best coach this team has ever had. It is too bad Grunfeld wouldn't build the kind of team he wanted and needed. The mistake was made long ago when Abe hired Eddie the coach before he hired a GM. It is no wonder this team can't win, the foundation has not been laid correctly.

60 - 48 spurs up at the half. Yes, that is a 12 - 2 run.66 - 50 9:-8 to go in the third and I am watch some football for a while. This is simply not fun to watch.

The Journey to Win Number One (cont...)

2012-11-24T19:11:00.002-05:00

OK, we are 0 - 10. The Bobcats are a better team than the Wizards. It appears as though the the Wizards are slated to get a lot of lottery balls only to get the worst possible pick again. Maybe they win it in a year there is no star player. Who knows. This team really needs John Wall to return.

One player I expect to show up tonight is Bradley Beal. He will be match up with Michael Kidd-Gilchrist. These two may be rivals already and this may further that. It is the same starting lineup as the last game. Livingston, Crawford, Beal, Vesely, and Seraphin.

Wizards vs Bobcats Sat November 24, 2012.

First Quarter

Kidd Gilchrist picks up two quick fouls. That could be big. I like the Wizards going to the basket.
Nice alley oop to Vesely. Wizards need to play uptempo.
Beal needs to keep taking those shots, he needs to make them though.
3:08 Nene comes in Bobcats 21 Washington 12.
I am sick of all these jump shots. These guys need to be aggressive and go to the basket.
I like the Way Webster is playing right now. Just drew another foul 31.3 left in first.
Nice steal and assist by Nene to Okafor. Felt bad for Diop there.
Webster has 7 points and it is 25-24 cats up, for now.

Second Quarter

I know Nene is having a huge impact on the team but I hope he isn't over doing it.
Taylor and Kidd-Gilchrist are the two Bobcats killing us most from my vantage point.
7:30 Beal back in 32-3 cats
6:35 Big 3 pointer by Beal, hope he gets hot!
Seraphin and Okafor are looking very good together.
4:20 it is all tied up at 41. Still need to get the offence going.
Add Ben Gordon to that list.
51-50 Wiz up at the half

Third Quarter

9:26 59-53 cats up these are the skids that kill the team.
I don't know what the Wiz did at the half, but it didn't work 64-53 8:07 cats up.
4:49 64 - 59 Wiz not out of bit but they are playing terribly. Both teams are not very good, right now. This is a tough game to watch.
Singleton is giving me something to watch. Nice and1.
One minute to go and the crowd is waking up. 72-7- cats up.
Singleton is going after boards and being aggressive, drew another foul.
If not for those long droughts, the Wiz would be much better off.
Very good rebounding in the end of the third. it is all tied at 72.

Fourth Quarter

5:33 85-80 cats up. Wiz started quarter off slow as well. i just hope that can finish strong.
34.8 seconds to go Wiz down by one but they have the ball.
17 seconds to go Kidd-Gilchrist just fouled out.
Webster at the line he neeeds to hit both, he doesn't but Singleton get rebound. OT.

Overtime

Nene slams strong to start OT. Nice way to start thing out.
Nice block by beal at 3:00 then Nene slams it it on other end. Bobcats take a timeout. 2:35 Wiz up by 2.
Good rebounding here. We need to make a shot though.
Ben Gordon hit a three to give Bobcats a 1 point lead ith a minuter to go.
Nene is laboring.
Taylor travels and Wiz get ball back.
Wiz can't get a win 0-11 here we come.
1.3 seconds to go and there is still a chance. 99-97 need a score here.
Singleton fouled taking a 3. Taylor fouled out. gotta make these.
Made the first one!
Missed the second.
Gotta make this to tie and go to double ot.
Made it double OT here we come.

Second Overtime!

Ben Gordon fouled out and gets a tech. Singleton makes the free throw.
4:20 Wiz are the first to 100 points, hope it means they get the win.
3:36 Wizards needed that rebound, but they get the next one. Gotta score here, please.
2:50 Nene hit a big bucket.
2:30 Beal with a huge rebound. gotta score again.
1:47 102-101 Wiz up. Need to get a score here and the follow that up with a stop.
1:27 singleton hits one of his freethrows and then Reggie Williams hit a three.
Cats up by one with the ball. 55.3 seconds to go in the game.
38.9 seconds Beal with a huge rebound. Wiz down 1.
Wow! Broken play. 24 second shot clock violation. 15.2 seconds to go and still down 1. Cats ball.
Wiz suck at getting missed free throw rebounds. down by 4 12.1 seconds to go.
Wiz appear headed to 0-82.
107-106 1.6 seconds to go. Bobcats ball.
108-106 Wizards can't win again. this is tough.

The Journey to Win Number One

2012-11-21T19:30:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the night. Yes, it is a bold prediction. But I am afforded the right at bold predictions. As a part time blogger, I can pick my spots. I can stake my reputation on my hunches and not lose my job.

Tonight is the night, Why because they need it. Because the Wiz have beat the Bobcats the last five times. "Execution is the most important thing down the stretch" Martel Webster said. Webster has really tried to assume a leadership role on this team.

This team has come close but tonight is the night I do my first post game reaction.

Wizards @ Bobcats, November 13, 2012...

Yes I predicted that over a week ago, but I think tonight really is the night. A new starting lineup with Livingston, Crawford, Beal, Vesely, and Seraphin. Also, Nene will play. I will update with thoughts from the game later.

Wizards @ Hawks, November 21, 2012

First Quarter

No Trevor Booker for this game, I guess Nene will take some of his minutes.
The team is struggling in the first quarter. They started out strong but are in a drought. Lets see how the timeout helps.
It is 17 - 9 the wizards cant score. Need to play inside out.
2:54 in the first. Wizards making a run. Seraphin has hit a couple of shots. 21 -15 Hawks up.
2:23 Nene comes in 23 -15.
Nene has had a huge impact already. At the end of the first it is 26 - 24. He effects offense and Defense.

Second Quarter

8:10 Wizards take a lead but it is tied up a few seconds later 32 - 32. Time out
Vesely with 3 fouls 7:32 let in second. Touchy call. Refs hate the Wizards.
37 -32 Wizards on a run. That never happens. 6:30
Beal is a good rebounder.
4:24 Nene, Crawford, and Seraphin come in Wiz up 39-38.
2:13 43 -42 Wiz up. both teams playing sloppy. These next two minutes will be huge.
At the half it is 50 - 47. Hawks up.
This is still a game either team can win. The Wiz have not had their usual drought. If they can avoid that in the second half, the Wizards can win this one.

Third Quarter

Beal had 4 fouls early in the third. Here comes a drought 10:30 52 - 49.
Vesely with 4 fouls also.
6:51 Atlanta up 58 - 53. atlanta is starting to heat up. Wizards need to answer now.
66 - 55 4:35 This is what I was afraid of. Wiz need to cut this lead before the fourth quarter.
Long threes won't help this team, here comes Nene 4:11.
3:33 Ariza goes hard to hoop and is fouled. 66:58 Wiz down.
66 - 61 3:09 Wiz only down by 5. 6 - 0 run.
2:42 proof refs hate Wiz.
1:40 66 - 64 Playing good defense.
End of three 68 - 66. Wiz down, they did eliminate a deficit to keep it close. Maybe someone steps up as the fourth quarter go to scorer. My guess is Seraphin.

Fourth Quarter

72 - 66 Kyle Korver is killing the Wiz.
73- 72 10:05 wiz have a lead again. Of coarse Nene is in.
76- 73 and like that Hawks have the lead back. 9:00
Seraphin is coming up big here. 7:30 in fourth.
79- 78 6:46 Atl at the line. Tied up this is where the Wiz usually fall asleep.
81 - 81 5:56 Atl just stepped up their defense. wiz looking sloppy. Time out.
Beal with 5 fouls. That hurts. He has been in foul trouble all night it seems.
4:53 Singletin hits a 3 pointer!!!
4:00 Wiz are fighting and still in this game. Nene is about to come in,
3:53 87 - 86 Wiz up.
2:56 both teams struggling. Wiz need to capitalize.
2:03 87 -86 Wiz up. These two minutes are what it comes down to.
1:28 Nene draws a fouls. his presence is felt.
89 - 88 11.4 seconds to go Wiz up. and have ball
Nene fouled he goes to ball. 10.3 seconds.
90 - 88 Wiz up. Nene is a beast, but only hits one of his FT. 9.6 seconds to go.
5.4 seconds to go Hawks to inbound, Harris draws foul he has to hit both to tie, 3.7 seconds to go.
He hits both and now Wiz need to score in 3.7 seconds or go to ot.
Overtime. 90 - 90

Overtime

Hawks win tip but miss shot and Wiz get rebound. Seraphin misses a dunk then Aatl scores first 4:00 to go. 92- 90.
AJ Price answers and hits and and one. 93 92 Wiz up.
Wiz have hit two shots in a row. but atl answers 2:45 95 -95 Wiz up.
Ariza hit a three 98 - 84 wiz up!
Who says Seraphin can't rebound.
1:47 to go. Wiz up. 98 - 94. Wiz need to take this game here.
Webster with a huge rebound 1:33 Josh Smith fouled out.
1:05 Horford to the line wiz up 98 - 94. He misses both but the get rebound and score.
31.3 seconds to go 98 - 96 Seraphin getting reamed by Saunders
Hawks have the ball. but miss both FT's. Hawks get possession again.
Wiz need to get a stop here, but don't get it. Tied up 98 all 19.5 seconds to go in OT 1
Seraphin hits a shot but Korver hits a 3 to answer with 1.9 seconds to go. Damn.
Atl up by 1. Webster hit a game winner. he got it off. Wiz win! No I am wrong. Still winnless.

My First MLB Playoff

2012-10-06T11:13:00.001-04:00

Photo courtesy of Sarah Stierch

Before DC had the Nationals, I didn't have a team that I followed. Last night, as I was working, I couldn't turn my MLB At Bat app off. At first I listened to the Braves and the cardinals.

A Phillies fan, told me how the Cardinals stole their spot last year. I couldn't help but sympathize with him. In my mind, the Braves are the better team. But last night they couldn't get the job done.I think the Nationals are better than the Cardinals.

I was really pulling for the Orioles last night. I would love to see the Orioles beat the Yankees. Growing up they were the closest team so that would ne awesome.I didn't really follow the team but I do like the Oriole bird.

Its possible, we could see a Beltway World Series. If I would have said that a few months ago, I would have been called a clown.Yet the possibility is the a very real.

It's very different watching the playoffs as a fan of a team. I'm sure I am gonna enjoy the ride.

Back in the Saddle Again

2012-09-30T15:39:00.000-04:00

It has been quite a long time since i last posted. A lot has happened in that time. Make no mistake I have been watching.

The Nationals are not a laughing stock team anymore. In fact, they are a team on the brink of a multi years as playoff favorites.

The Redskins offense is vastly improved, but the defense of past years seems to only be a dream. A past reality that may never return this year.

What is really on my mind is Washington Wizards. This season could be the year things around for my basketball team. I felt that way before Wall's injury and still feel that way.

After the team of clowns that were on the Wizards were sent away, things improved. Boasting a much more talented and deeper frontcourt. Training camp is starting soon and I really want t see gus like Vesely, Beal, Seraphin, and Singleton.

It is that time of year where hope springs eternal. Lets se how I feelin a few months.

The Start to a Big Off Season

2012-06-20T21:17:00.002-04:00

With one of the deepest drafts in recent memory, the Wizards are looking to have a big off season. They got that off to a good start today as they traded Rashard Lewis and their lowest draft pick to acquire Trevor Ariza and Emeka Okafor.

When I heard about this trade the first person I thought about was Coach John Thompson. Before he left radio, I remember him talking about the Wizards. He didn't agree with how they never wanted to get veterans to lead their young players. Doc Rivers made a similar point about young players needing to earn their spot.

This is a great step at fixing these problems, it also adds two pieces that help this team where it needs it. Okafor gives this team a rebounder (they needed a rebounder bad) and a defensive presence. This defensive presence is needed if a team wants to be good defensively.He also compliments Nene and Seraphin well.

Trevor continues the defensive theme. Don't be surprised if Singleton or Booker are available come draft night. After picking #3,(MKG or Beal) I hope the Wizards trade back into the middle of the first (or luck up) and get another starting caliber player (Jeremy Lamb or John Jenkins). The point is, this could be a good team next year; if things are done well.