NBA Playoffs: 3 secret weapons the Washington Wizards will have at their disposal vs. Philadelphia 76ers

Washington Wizards secret weapon #1: Raul Neto

Revenge game? How about a revenge series. One season removed from being a backup point guard for the Philadelphia 76ers, Raul Neto has a chance at revenge against his former team.

Neto has seen his role and responsibility grow since leaving the city of brotherly love. With the Wizards, Neto has played both point and shooting guard in addition to being a part of some three-guard lineups. If the Wizards were giving away end-of-season superlatives, Neto would win “Most Versatile” or “Swiss Army Knife”.

The results speak for themselves. In his first season with the Wizards, Neto is recording career-highs in minutes (21.9), rebounds (2.4), and points (8.7) per game. He’s also posting the best true shooting percentage of his career (57.5).

While it’s impressive that Neto has been able to increase his volume and efficiency, it is his defense that has been the most welcome contribution this season. Neto has become one of the Wizards’ best perimeter defenders. He’ll certainly be called upon to stop the 76ers, who have a full arsenal of weapons that can make you pay from outside, including Danny Green, Seth Curry, and more.

The Wizards don’t need jaw-dropping highlight-reel plays from Neto. They need smart, sound decision-making and gritty, aggressive energy. It’s what Neto’s been giving them all season, and it’s what he’ll need to continue giving them throughout the playoffs.