The Washington Wizards make it 14 straight at home with a 123-108 win over the Boston Celtics. Before the game started, they stirred up some drama by the wearing all black entering the Verizon Center. This signified a “funeral” of their newly rivalry with the Celtics. The idea was led by Bradley Beal and John Wall, especially after their confrontation following their last game.
Wizard Get Payback
Despite their dramatic entrance, Washington had one thing on their mind, winning. They came out strong leading the Celtics 33-24 behind Wall’s eight points and five rebounds. The second quarter, the Wizards stayed on the attack and did not let up. They led Boston at halftime by seven with a score of 66-59. Although this was a great start for Washington, the problem has been second half play.
The Celtics cut the lead down to six points in the third quarter, but Washington refused to give this game away. The Wizards outscored the Celtics 57-49. This was one of the few times that Washington outscored an opponent in the second half.
After struggling with his shots the past couple games, Beal led the Wizards with 31 points. Wall added 27 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists. Markieff Morris continues his solid play with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Marcin Gortat still has not had a double-double in a while by finished with 16 points and eight rebounds. Isiah Thomas led the Celtics with 27 points and 13 rebounds.
On to ATL
Washington has a nice little break and does not play again until Friday when they take on the Atlanta Hawks. The season series is tied with the Hawks at one game a piece. The Wizards have the most recent win with a three-point win at home. However, the last time they played in Atlanta was the first game of the season. The Hawks won 114-99.
Beating the Hawks
In order for Washington to win, they have to play good in the second half. They have been outscored by a total of 114-90 in the second half of both games against Atlanta. They also have to keep Dwight Howard off the glass, who had 31 total rebounds in two games. On the offensive end, Paul Milsap is the Wizard killer. He has scored a total of 44 points in the two matchups. Washington may want to double team him at times, forcing other players to beat them.
Morris will be the difference maker in this one due to his most recent play. They also do not have Kyle Korver anymore who made opponents spread the floor more. Tim Hardaway will be a player to watch out for if he catches fire. Washington came out with two road wins on their three-game road trip. Their only loss came to Detroit at the buzzer, putting them in a good place for a victory. Washington is hot right now and has a nice little rest. A two-day break should not throw their momentum off, right?
