Wiz of Awes
Fansided

Why the Wizards are Winning Without Wall

By Frank J. Platko

WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 30: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder holds onto the ball in front of Tomas Satoransky #31 of the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on January 30, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 30: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder holds onto the ball in front of Tomas Satoransky #31 of the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on January 30, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 30: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder holds onto the ball in front of Tomas Satoransky #31 of the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on January 30, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 30: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Oklahoma City Thunder holds onto the ball in front of Tomas Satoransky #31 of the Washington Wizards during the first half at Capital One Arena on January 30, 2018 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /

For quite some time, the Washington Wizards performed poorly whenever John Wall was not on the court. It was a glaring issue during the last few playoffs. Yet, they’re 7-2 this season while Wall’s out with injury. What has changed and why has the team found success in his absence? 

It’s no secret what John Wall means to the Washington Wizards organization. On and off the court, he’s been a franchise player in every sense of the term.

He’s undoubtedly the Wizards best player since he entered the league. Despite his struggles this season, which is most likely due to injury, Wall’s still managed to almost average a double-double. 

When it was announced that Wall would undergo another knee procedure and miss approximately 6-8 weeks, the Wizards seemed doomed. Already underperforming with Wall on the court, and with one of the hardest schedules remaining in the league, many fans were calling for the team to pack it in and acquire a better draft pick. 

However, his absence has given the Wizards new life. Unlike prior seasons, they’re thriving without Wall, going 7-2. Earning impressive victories against the Toronto Raptors and Oklahoma City Thunder along the way. 

What has changed about the team that has allowed them to succeed without their best player? 

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