Washington Wizards: 3 bold predictions for tonight’s preseason game against the Miami Heat
1.Wizards score more than 130 points
Washington scored 121 points against the Knicks and went 40-97 from the floor, producing a 41.2 field goal percentage. They attempted 97 shots! I don’t assume this volume will change in tonight’s match-up against the Heat. Miami allowed 122 points to the Charlotte Hornets this past Tuesday evening.
On top of this, the Wizards only made eight 3-pointers. Now they’ve got a rhythm and feel for the new system, which means the production will improve. With the amount of 3’s the team is going to shoot, the Wizards will make at least twelve tonight.
This fast-paced offense will allow the Wizards to have more transition opportunities and of course this plays to Washington’s strengths. Having Wall in the open court is a match up nightmare for opposing teams to try and contest. This will also provide more corner three opportunities for the Wizards to capitalize on.
Let’s be real, there’s a small chance Beal goes 3-12 from the field again. Let’s count on Rivers attempting more shots after a timid opening game as well. Shooting 21.1% from deep isn’t likely to happen again. Not to mention that the Wizards went 33-43 from the free-throw line, only shooting 76.7%. They missed a lot of free-throws towards the end of the game.
Furthermore, I anticipate statement games from some of the young talent. Realizing that they need to convert these limited opportunities, they will play better than expected.
Last game, the only players who played well were Otto Porter Jr. and Kelly Oubre Jr., sprinkled in with the some decent moments from others. This will change tonight. Washington will have a strong performance, refusing to go 0-2 in the preseason.
Prediction: WSH-135- MIA- 121