In most cases, scoring 81 points in a basketball game would be a breathtaking accomplishment. But as Houston Rockets coach Ime Udoka sat postgame, reacting to Bam Adebayo’s legendary performance, a few factors discredited it, in his eyes.
One was the number of free throws Adebayo made. "I saw he only made [seven] 3s but 40 free throws or something like that -- tells the story right there, " he said.
The other? “And [it was against] the Washington Wizards.”
Udoka's comments were telling: the 2025-26 Wizards were a historic defense- just not in a good way. The team had the worst defensive rating in NBA history, allowed one of the highest-scoring performances in NBA history, and won just 17 games.
The team had made a flurry of moves this offseason to revamp their roster and avoid such embarrassment, including the trade for Deandre Ayton. Ayton’s athleticism at the rim should help Washington mightily, a year after allowing the third-most points in the paint in the NBA per game.
One area of concern has seemingly gone ignored, nevertheless: their ability to slow the league’s best wings. A year after having a 65.4 defensive rating against designated forwards, good for 24th in the NBA, very little improvement was made.
Washington’s inactivity could speak volumes next season, if no additional moves are made. Even with all of their offseason moves, the team’s biggest weakness is set to haunt them again in 2026-27.
Middleton and Derozan (potentially) could be aging liabilities
While the Wizards struggled mightily at preventing open looks from 3-point range a year ago, there were still some positives. The tough on-ball defense of Bilal Coulibaly and the effort and intensity of Kyshawn George stood out, especially in thwarting opponents from 3-point range.
Heading into 2026, it would be expected that these players would see an increase in minutes after encouraging seasons last year. But instead, the team brought back Khris Middleton and is reportedly having discussions about bringing aging star DeMar DeRozan into the fold.
Middleton and DeRozan both certainly offer more than their younger counterparts on offense. But they make up for it with their defensive woes.
Age and health have made Middleton a negative on that end of the floor. He was often attacked off the dribble by quicker, more athletic wings. And DeRozan has almost never been a good defender as a below-average athlete whose effort wanes.
Replacing even some of Coulibaly and George’s minutes with these two veterans could have a dramatic effect on Washington’s defense. The weakness of Trae Young and Tre Johnson on defense makes these two standout players crucial.
Washington must find a way to balance their rotation correctly to place value on both ends of the floor.
The Wizards could use one more offseason acquisition
As of right now, Washington’s roster is almost full. Just one roster spot remains, and it could very well be given to DeRozan. But instead of signing the 36-year-old guard, perhaps the team should consider adding another piece to protect the perimeter.
Players like Bruce Brown and Gary Payton offer skill sets that better fit Washington’s needs. They’re both stellar defenders who can handle both guards and wings on-ball, and cover for Young and Johnson off-ball.
There are even options within the team’s G League system. Combo guard Seth Trimble had a standout summer league and would certainly be worth exploring on a two-way deal. This would also allow Washington to promote Julian Reese, who showed flashes last year.
Whatever move the Wizards choose to make, prioritizing their defense is a must. No matter how much firepower they can produce this season, their postseason hopes stand no chance without significant improvement on the other end.
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