The Washington Wizards keep their home winning streak alive at 13 games defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 104-101. What started out as a surprising blowout game, came all the way down to a controversial last possession. At halftime, the Wizards led 66-51 behind Otto Porter’s 17 first half points. Although Memphis was down, they certainly were far from out. They outscored the home team 26-17 in the third quarter, cutting the lead down to six going into the 4th. The Wizards have struggled with holding on to leads in the second half and tonight no different.
Controversial Call
Memphis cut the lead all the way down to three late in the 4th after a Vince Carter three. The game was starting to look like a heartbreaker for Washington. With 9.8 seconds left in the game, Washington was set to inbound the ball; up 104-101. Beal got double teamed on the inbound pass. While Beal signaled for a timeout, a jump ball was called after Marc Gasol and JaMychal Green both grabbed the ball. With seven seconds left, the Grizzlies won the possession. Conley dribbled around and found a wide open James Ennis at the top of the key. Ennis shot fell short and the Wizards barely held on for their sixth win in seven games.
Wall finished the game with 25 points and 13 assists. Porter finished the game with 25 (six threes) and seven rebounds and Markieff Morris had another big game with 17 points and 12 rebounds.
On to the Big Apple
Although Washington got a great win, they have no time to enjoy. They head to New York to face a banged up Knicks team in a back-to-back. The Knicks are coming off an upset victory over the Celtics in Boston without Kristaps Porzingis and Joakim Noah. New York has dealt with a lot of injuries this season, however, they shouldn’t be overlooked.
Washington will have to stop the big three of Derrick Rose, Carmelo Anthony, and Porzingis if he is able to play. The Knicks are not a good defensive team and Washington has to take full advantage of that. Beal had a bad game against Memphis and they still managed to pull out a win.
