Wiz of Awes
Fansided

Washington Wizards: Bradley Beal, Wizards you just have to win one game

By Jen Julie Smith

WASHINTON, DC - NOVEMBER 10: Bradley Beal #3 and John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards participate in an open practice for military veterans on November 10, 2017 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images)
WASHINTON, DC - NOVEMBER 10: Bradley Beal #3 and John Wall #2 of the Washington Wizards participate in an open practice for military veterans on November 10, 2017 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. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Ned Dishman/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 05: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Washington Wizards reacts after drawing an offensive foul against the Indiana Pacers in the first half of a game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on February 5, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 05: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Washington Wizards reacts after drawing an offensive foul against the Indiana Pacers in the first half of a game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse on February 5, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using the photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Raptors’ rapid pace and rapid shots

After Game 1, I wrote that if the Wizards want to win Game 2 they would have to start Mike Scott.

Not because Scott would make a better center than Gortat, but because the Raptors start off the game with so much speed.

That’s how the Raptors are able to light up the Wizards so early, because of their pace, and the slowness of Washington’s.

I’m going to make another suggestion that no one will be in favor of. But Kelly Oubre should start. Again it’s a matter of pace.

It could be the first 4 minutes, but just enough so that Washington could dictate the tempo. Then you bring Porter in.

I didn’t harp on Porter’s injuries throughout the season. But he’s been banged up and has been playing through pain.

After the Wizards dictate the tempo, then you bring in the best shooter on the floor–Porter.

Once you get the Raptors to play at your speed, watch Porter light them up.

The Wizards have to dictate the tempo. The Raptors want to play run-and-gun, not anymore.

I know that the actives are limited because Jodie Meeks is still counted on the roster, but Ramon Sessions should get some minutes. (Obviously not over Ty Lawson).

Because another thing the Wizards aren’t doing is getting the Raptors into foul trouble. Start attacking the rim. Every single player on the Wizards knows how to take a layup.

You’re letting the Raptors own the whole court. Drive the lanes, at least own some of the floor.

Serge Ibaka and Jonas Valanciunas should be worried about personal fouls. Otherwise, you’re giving them free reign.

After the first quarter, the rotations have to be dictated by what’s occurring on the floor. For once, don’t be so predictable. What if Wall came out and started the second quarter.

The Wizards are short-staffed not short of talent.

I hope you’re seeing where I’m going with this. Don’t be predictable.

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