By: Will Peralta
The Washington Wizards’ 2-15 record may suggest a struggling team, but a closer look reveals a more promising picture. Their two victories, both against the Atlanta Hawks, demonstrate the Wizards’ capabilities and hint at a more competitive team than their record indicates.
The Significance of Beating the Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks are no ordinary team. They boast the impressive distinction of being the only team in the NBA to beat the top two teams, the Boston Celtics and the Cleveland Cavaliers, by double digits. This achievement underscores the Hawks’ strength and depth.
In this context, the Wizards’ back-to-back victories against the Hawks take on added significance. These wins demonstrate that Washington can compete with and defeat a high-caliber team.
Stats and Trends
A review of the statistics from the Wizards’ two victories against the Hawks reveals some encouraging trends:
1. Improved Defense: In their two wins, the Wizards held the Hawks to an average of 105.5 points, 5.5 points below Atlanta’s season average.
2. Balanced Scoring: Washington’s offense was well-distributed, with five players averaging double-digit points in the two victories.
3. Rebounding Advantage: The Wizards outrebounded the Hawks in both games, with an average margin of +5.5 rebounds per game.
Historical Context
While the Wizards’ 2-15 record may seem dismal, it’s essential to consider the historical context. Washington has faced one of the toughest schedules in the NBA, with 12 of their 17 games coming against teams with winning records.
In fact, the Wizards’ strength of schedule ranks among the top 5 in the league. This challenging schedule, combined with injuries to key players, has contributed to their slow start.
Conclusion
The Washington Wizards’ 2-15 record does not accurately reflect their potential. Their back-to-back victories against the Atlanta Hawks, a team that has achieved impressive wins against the NBA’s top teams, demonstrate Washington’s capabilities.
As the Wizards continue to navigate their challenging schedule and work through injuries, they may yet surprise fans and opponents alike with their resilience and determination.