Preview: Washington Wizards host the rolling Detroit Pistons on MLK Day
The Washington Wizards will look to snap a three-game losing streak on Monday when they host the Detroit Pistons in DC.
The NBA has 14 games tipping off on MLK Day, and the Washington Wizards will start things off with the earliest game of the day. The Wizards are hosting the Detroit Pistons for the final contest between these two teams. The Wizards currently are 2-1 against the Pistons this season.
Detroit has won two straight games with victories against the Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks, behind some incredible play from big man Andre Drummond and point guard Derrick Rose. The two veterans have combined for 78 points in the two wins.
For Washington, a team that’s now lost three straight, the Pistons present an opportunity for a much-needed win. It’s clear that the Wizards have Detroit’s number to some extent, with their 2-1 lead on the season series. But it’ll take big performances on both ends from a few key players.
Washington Wizards to Watch
Washington is going to need a huge game from Bradley Beal to stay in this one, and potentially win. Jordan McRae will likely be out with an ankle sprain.
Derrick Rose has been on a scoring tear lately, and in order to keep up with the Pistons scoring while also filling the Wizards’ scoring void, Beal will need to step up for a big night.
And that starts with his shooting. Beal has been in a bit of a slump all season. Since returning from injury, Beal is shooting 46 percent from the field and 29 percent from three. His three-point shot has alluded him all year long, but Monday’s matchup would be a great time to find it.
Elsewhere, Ian Mahinmi and Thomas Bryant will have their hands full with Drummond in the post. The Pistons’ big man is averaging 15.1 points, 14.8 rebounds, and 2.6 steals over his last ten games
Mahinmi and Bryant aren’t the soundest defensive players, and they aren’t top tier rim protectors. However, if they can be aggressive in their attempts to limit Drummond’s looks at the goal, Washington may stand a chance in this one.
Key to Victory: Execution
Washington has got the upper hand almost everywhere against the Pistons.
They’ve got the depth, they’ve got the firepower on offense, and they know how to beat this team.
As long as the Wizards come out playing like the team that has beaten the Pistons two out of three times this season, then they should be snapping their three-game losing streak Monday afternoon.
When Detroit blew the Wizards out in December, 132 -102, Blake Griffin was healthy, and Isaiah Thomas and Davis Bertans were not. That is not the case for Monday, as Washington will not be as shorthanded, and Detroit will be missing (arguably) their best player.
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The Wizards know how to beat this team, and they’ll get a shot to close out the season series at home in DC. Execution will be key if they’re to earn a win on Monday.