Wizards have playoffs in sights
By Matthew Laux
The Washington Wizards are getting tired of their playoff drought, and they aren’t afraid to let the rest of NBA know. John Wall has said he believes the Wizards “have all the pieces” to make the post season, the teams first time since Gilbert Arenas’ departure. Since the addition of forward Al Harrington, Washington seems to have a different aura about them, maybe even a chip on their shoulder, and the team wants to do something about it.
Bradley Beal and co. will look to guide the Wizards into the post season.
John Wall appears to be the motor that makes the team run, and recognizes that the first step to making the playoffs is staying healthy. The fourth-year point guard missed 33 games a year ago as the Wizards limped to a 5-28 record. Once back in the lineup, Washington appeared to be a different team, and its this confidence that has led many around the organization to believe that its their time to be serious contenders in the Eastern Conference.
Wall, shooting guard Bradley Beal, and rookie Otto Porter Jr. will lead the Washington offense as defensive stalwarts Emeka Okafor and Nene will sure up the front court. Wall already touched upon the importance of staying healthy, and Wizards fans can already feel a bitter nervous, as Okafor and reserve forward Chris Singleton will miss a chunk of the season due to injuries. Washington will look to their bench for help, namely Kevin Seraphin, Trevor Ariza, and Martell Webster.
Washington hopes to make their first playoff trip in five years, as they begin their pre season affairs on October 8th against the Brooklyn Nets at the Verizon Center.