Washington Wizards Three Takeaways: Wizards Squander Lead, But Prevail Against Chicago Bulls
By Ben Mehic
Washington Wizards lost a seemingly insurmountable lead against the Chicago Bulls on Friday, but did enough to sneak out with a win.
Losing NBA coaches have distinct faces of desperation.
Fred Hoiberg has altered his rotation more than any other coach in the NBA, yet the Chicago Bulls find themselves out of the NBA Playoff picture. With Dwyane Wade out for the season, Chicago will have a void to fill, but lack the talent and composure to fill it.
On Friday night against the Washington Wizards, Chicago found themselves down by 19 points. At one point, the Wizards were almost toying with the Bulls, as Brandon Jennings slithered around the court practicing his Globetrotter-like handles.
But then the Bulls sprung back, taking advantage of the Wizards’ inconsistent defense.
With about a minute to go, the Bulls were filled with life. Washington’s offense spluttered and the Bulls were energized behind the play of Robin Lopez. For a moment, Hoiberg looked like the young, spry head coach he was supposed to be in Chicago.
Chicago managed to cut Washington’s lead to just two points, but weren’t able to put together defensive stops when it mattered most. John Wall and Otto Porter sunk game-sealing free throws, 112-107.
Our step dad steps up
Markieff Morris was out Friday with illness and Scott Brooks called upon Jason Smith to start.
We’ve affectionately given Smith the nickname “our favorite step dad,” because, well, he looks like everybody’s step dad.
More from Wiz of Awes
- It would be a mistake for the Wizards to trade for this elite sharpshooter
- When is the 2024 NBA trade deadline? Everything you need to know
- 5 early predictions for the 2023-24 Washington Wizards
- 4 most interesting Washington Wizards storylines for the 2023-24 season
- Washington Wizards: 3 teams that would be perfect fit for Danilo Gallinari
But, it’s also because his game is the opposite of flashy, but super effective.
Smith is probably the most energetic player on the Washington Wizards’ roster.
Right when the game started, Smith snagged consecutive offensive rebounds, setting the tone for the rest of the half.
Prior to the game, Smith said his teammates told him to shoot whenever he was open. That’s exactly what he did.
Smith scored 15 points at the half on 13 shot attempts, making 3 of his 4 tries from behind the 3-point line.
It’s hard to believe this is the same player that was rockin’ a negative player efficiency at the beginning of the season.
Without his hustle and shot making, the Wizards wouldn’t have gotten the win on Friday.
Mahinmi is earning his money
On a night when Marcin Gortat struggled to find his rhythm, the Washington Wizards needed their $64 million backup to produce.
Like Smith, Ian Mahinmi provided necessary energy and continued to surprise with his scoring.
Before arriving to the nation’s capital, Mahinmi had a reputation of being a stiff rim protector, but he’s proven to be much more than that.
More from Wiz of Awes
- It would be a mistake for the Wizards to trade for this elite sharpshooter
- When is the 2024 NBA trade deadline? Everything you need to know
- 5 early predictions for the 2023-24 Washington Wizards
- 4 most interesting Washington Wizards storylines for the 2023-24 season
- Washington Wizards: 3 teams that would be perfect fit for Danilo Gallinari
Mahinmi has a soft touch around the basket, making him a perfect target for pick-and-rolls and lobs. Mahinmi and Jennings have formed a tandem of sorts, as the two continue to connect on those plays.
He scored 16 points and made 8 of his 11 attempts off the bench. Mahinmi played 20 minutes, while Gortat was on the court for 22.
It’ll be interesting to see if Brooks decides to increase his playing time going forward, especially since Gortat has been in a funk.
Johnny Basketball sets a career high
John Wall has court vision that cannot be taught. There’s not enough film in the world that can be watched to replicate what he’s been doing on a nightly basis for the Washington Wizards.
Rajon Rondo was inserted back into Hoiberg’s starting lineup and Wall abused the former All-Star, who ironically was known for racking up ridiculous assist totals in his prime. The difference is, though, Wall wasn’t gunning for assists – he was playing within the flow of the offense and still dished out a career-high 20 dimes.
Ernie Grunfeld has constructed a roster around Wall and the offense, for the most part, has flourished. No one on the roster is a complete liability on that end. The guards and forwards can shoot, and the big men do a solid job of catching and finishing.
When the Wizards needed scoring, Wall provided that, too. He’s a jack of all trades, but Wall’s also mastered the art of distribution.
Next: Why the Wizards Could Get To the NBA Finals
Washington will head on the road to face the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday night, their second game of a back-to-back.