So, the Wizards went 2-1 this week, which is good for nearly any week right now. The only problem was that those two wins came against hapless New Jersey and New York. Washington could have gone 3-0, but they decided to not play the fourth quarter against Boston Monday. That being said, it's back to the lowly expectations that have surrounded the Wizards for nearly two years.

Any week that ends with a winning record is a good thing right now for the Wiz. They beat the teams they were supposed to beat, despite struggling mightily against New Jersey. Do you now how embarrassing it would have been to lose to the Nets, a team that has won four games all year? It wouldn't have been surprising, but still extremely embarrassing. Nevertheless, Saturday's win against New York was one of the most complete games the Wizards have played in quite a while. Six players scored in double figures, including a surprising 25 points from Mike Miller. It also helps when Antawn Jamison scores 21 points to go along with 23 rebounds.

The Bad
The lack of consistency has killed the Wizards all year long. In Monday's game against Boston, Antawn Jamison didn't show up, as he scored only eight points and grabbed eight rebounds. Even within a game, the Wizards can't remain consistent. They scored 31 points in the second quarter to take a six-point lead into halftime, but only scored 10 in the fourth quarter to squander a four-point lead, in game the had played well in. It also doesn't help when you shoot less than 39% for a game, along with only making 1-of-10 from three-point range.

The Surprises
Earl Boykins taking the final shot against New Jersey was a tad surprising. Instead of relying on Antawn Jamison or Caron Butler, the Wizards went to their new closer in Boykins. Thankfully, Boykins made the shot or some critics (are there really any critics left for the Wizards?) may have been questioning the play-calling of Flip Saunders. Oh, let's not forget the fact that it would have been an overtime game against New Jersey...yes, that New Jersey, if Boykins had missed the shot.

What Does it Mean?
This week went as expected and not much more can be said about it. Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton both learned they were suspended for the remainder of the season, which continues the streak of having a player suspended or arrested to three straight weeks. Next week, the Wiz play @ New York, @ Orlando, vs Atlanta, and @ Charlotte, so expectations can't be too high right now. It would be great to come out of this week 2-2, but let's not get too far ahead of ourselves.

Player of the Week
Mike Miller...seems to be hitting his stride, average 11.6 points and 8 rebounds in his last five games.

Today's Wizards Wednesday post comes from FFODC's new basketball consultant, Kevin Burke. Kevin is a sophomore communication major at Virginia Tech, and his ultimate goal is to become a sports writer or play-by-play announcer. Kevin comes to FFODC from his own blog, Upon Further Review, and will also be covering Hokie Hoops for us as well.

Comments (0)

Name

Email

Website

Title

Comment

smaller | bigger

Subscribe via email (registered users only)

Add Comment