The Washington Wizards are set to open their 2018 preseason against the New York Knicks. What should Wizards fans expect in their first preseason game of the season?
After a disappointing season where they fail well below expectations, the Washington Wizards will take their first steps towards redemption against the New York Knicks, Monday, October 1, at the Capital One Arena. This will be the Wizards’ first preseason game of the 2018-19 season.
After LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, and DeMar DeRozan made their season debut for their respective teams, the District will have to wait before they can welcome eight-time all-star, Dwight Howard, to Washington. According to Chase Huges of NBA Sports, Howard is ruled out for the Wizards’ first preseason game due to injury.
"Wizards head coach Scott Brooks confirmed on Saturday what could have been deduced by Dwight Howard missing practice all week, that the veteran center will not play in the team’s first preseason game on Monday night. Howard, 32, has yet to hit the practice court as he deals with back soreness. He missed all five days of Wizards training camp with the injury"
Unfortunately, the Wizards are not the only team heading into the preseason with injuries. The Knicks are still without all-star forward, Kristaps Porzingis, who suffered a devastating knee injury last season.
Washington Wizards Projected Starting Five:
Point Guard: John Wall – 19.1 points, 9.6 assists, 3. rebounds (2018 stats)
Shooting Guard: Bradley Beal – 22.6 points, 4.5 assists, 46.3% Field Goal (2018 stats)
Small Forward: Otto Porter – 14.7 points, 2.0 assists, 6.4 rebounds (2018 stats)
Power Forward: Markieff Morris – 11.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, 36.7%three-point field goal percentage (2018 stats)
Center: Ian Mahinmi – 4.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 55.6% field goal percentage, 0.5 blocks (2018 stats)
Key to a Victory:
Take this game seriously: Although it’s preseason, if the Wizards are serious about winning a championship this season, they must come out ready to play like champs. After watching the Golden State Warriors and Boston Celtics over the weekend, it’s safe to say both teams are already in mid-season form. In order for the Wizards to be viewed as contenders in the East, they must come out with the same sense of urgency as the top teams in the league.
Final Thoughts:
Against a young team in their first preseason game of the season, the Wizards should have an easy victory to start the year off right. To stay up to date on all things Wizards this season, be sure to follow Wiz of Awes throughout the season. Tip-off will be at 7:00 p.m. ET and on NBCSWA.