The Washington Wizards are set for another big-time matchup to start the week with a home game against the Golden State Warriors.
Washington will enter this matchup sitting at 2-3 looking to get back in the win column, but they’ll have their hands full against a 5-1 Warriors squad.
Even without Stephen Curry, the Dubs continue to find a way to win with their new-found depth general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. managed to build over the offseason. Now, they could be set to get their superstar guard back in the lineup against the Wizards.
Nonetheless, the Wizards head into every battle with a chance to win, and this matchup with Golden State will be no different. That said, here’s a look at the key matchups the Wizards must win to protect home court,
Wizards backcourt vs. Warriors backcourt
As Washington heads into this showdown, it’s yet to be decided if Stephen Curry will be cleared to play in D.C. as he recovers from an ankle injury that has held him out over the last week. Without Curry, Washington will likely head into a battle with Brandin Podziemski and Buddy Hield manning the backcourt for the team.
If Curry does suit up, the Warriors will be near full health looking to continue their hot start to the season.
Nonetheless, the Wizards backcourt of Jordan Poole and Bilal Coulibaly will have to show up ready to play regardless of who’s across from them. If the Wizards hope to win, they’ll need their underrated duo to continue their impressive start to the season. Especially for Poole who is set to take on his former team.
Kyle Kuzma vs. Andrew Wiggins
Andrew Wiggins is yet another player listed on the Warriors injury report, but assuming the wing can go on Monday, he will likely serve as the primary defender on Kyle Kuzma. Serving as a 3-and-D guy for the Warriors has seemed to be a role that the former No. 1 overall pick has thrived in, and that won’t change against the Wizards.
As for Kuzma, the versatile forward has struggled to find his rhythm on offense to start the year. Following an inconsistent start, there’s no better time than now for the Utah alum to show up and dominate like he’s shown the ability to do.
Jonas Valanciunas vs. Trayce Jackson–Davis
The Warriors made the move to slot Trayce Jackson-Davis in as their starting center this season. The Indiana product is athletic, and he’s shown the ability to be a powerful post player with his smaller, yet stout frame.
Against the Wizards starting frontcourt, his size could become a problem for Washington that leans towards more minutes for Jonas Valanciunas.
These are the matchups the Wizards signed the big man for, and he’ll need to step up on Monday night if the Wiz hope to get back to the .500 mark.