By Will Peralta
Photo by Will Peralta
The Washington Wizards have shown true promise and improvement in the second half of the season, with a notable turnaround in their performance and new veterans in the locker room. Currently ant 10 wins the odd makers had the Wizards winning o/u 22.5 games and after a slow start, the team has secured 5 wins in their last 29 games since January, including an impressive 4 wins in their last 10 outings.
The addition of veteran players Khris Middleton and Marcus Smart has been a significant factor in the team’s improvement. Middleton, a seasoned forward, has brought a level of experience and leadership to the team, while Smart, a tenacious guard, has provided a much-needed boost on the defensive end. Although never teammates until recently Middleton and Smart have a lot of history especially in the playoffs against one another with the Celtics and the Bucks.
The Wizards’ rookie class has also been a bright spot, with Alex Sarr, Bub Carrington, and Kyshawn George all showing promising signs. Sarr, a versatile forward, has demonstrated a keen ability to score and rebound also looking to the rookie of the year Award. Carrington, a speedy guard, has shown a knack for getting to the rim and finishing strong getting praise from many players around the leauge. George, a talented wing, has impressed with his all-around skills, including his ability to score, rebound, defend and sometimes bringing the ball up the court.
Despite their improved play, the Wizards still face an uphill battle in the competitive Eastern Conference. However, with their veteran additions and promising young core, the team is well-positioned for future success.
As the season winds down, the Wizards will look to continue their strong play and build momentum heading into the offseason. With a solid foundation in place, the team is poised to make a push for the playoffs in the near future with contributions from another top draft pick.
In conclusion, the Washington Wizards have shown significant improvement in the second half of the season, thanks in large part to their veteran additions, promising young core and coaching. While there is still work to be done, the team’s future looks bright, and fans can expect exciting things to come in the years to come.