The Washington Wizards are set to return to action against the New York Knicks on Saturday night with a chance to earn their sixth win of the season.
Washington enters this matchup fresh off a thrilling win over the Charlotte Hornets on Thursday night after Jordan Poole's late game go-ahead three pointer put the Wizards on top after blowing a 21 point lead down the stretch.
Although the Wizards aren't in any position to make a run at the postseason after their historically bad start, there is still hope that the team can find a way to remain more competitive as the young team continues to gel.
However, heading into their battle against the Knicks, they'll be without one of their best scoring options for the 11th straight game.
Kyle Kuzma to miss yet another game due to injury
Kuzma has been listed as out for the team's matchup with the Knicks due to a rib injury that has kept the forward off the court for consecutive games over the last couple of weeks. In addition to the wing's injury woes, it seems to be a growing possibility that the Utah product will be playing elsewhere following the NBA trade deadline in February.
Nonetheless, head coach Brian Keefe can only worry about the players he has on the court when the Wizards take on the Knicks. That said, here's a look at three keys for Washington to grab their second straight win.
Limit Karl-Anthony Towns impact on the boards
Karl-Anthony Towns has been a big time addition for the Knicks this season. Not only is he a reliable scoring option, but his impact on the boards has been one of the largest boost for New York after losing Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency.
Towns is averaging 24.3 points and 13.5 rebounds on the season, and if the Wizards hope to have any chance, they'll need to limit the Kentucky product's impact. Washington will likely need to throw multiple defenders at Towns and make it a point of emphasis to get a body on him when the ball hits the rim.
Rely on Malcolm Brogdon in Jordan Poole's absence
Jordan Poole has put together multiple big games over the last week. The scoring guard has been an igniter on offense this season and his absence against the Knicks will be hard to overcome. For the Wizards to escape this matchup with a win, they'll need to rely on Malcolm Brogdon to step up in his absence.
Fortunately for Washington, the veteran has shown he still has plenty left in the tank.
Wizards bench needs to have another big game
The Wizards bench unit rose to the occassion on Thursday with 38 points. Against a deep Knicks team who can score points in a hurry when their reserves are in, Washington's bench will have to show up in a big way to help take the load off their starting five.