Preview: Wizards Backcourt
By Matthew Laux
With the Washington Wizards season tipping off in just a day, the Wizards have plenty of talent entering the 2013-14 campaign. Today will preview a few of the Wizards stars located in the team’s backcourt.
Oct 23, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) looks to shoot against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving (2) at US Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
Many know the Washington Wizards floor general is point guard John Wall. Expectations for the season are high, as Wall, however, enters the campaign with his own unique set of expectations. Wall expects to have a breakout year entering his fourth season in the league. The Wizards made Wall the face of the franchise in the offseason, and anticipate results that reflect their decision. Wall will be paired along side shooting guard Bradley Beal. Beal enters just his second season in the NBA, and has improved greatly over the offseason. Beal was a star in the preseason and proved to be a prolific scorer the team so desperately needs.
The supporting cast, however, may be a weakness for the young Wizards franchise. Without Wall in the beginning of last season, Washington struggled mightily and put themselves in last place in the Eastern Conference. Once again, the point guard position lacks the necessary depth, and if an injury to Wall were to occur Washington would be in major trouble. The shooting guard position is a different story, as Martell Webster has proved to be a valuable asset to the team. Webster, who averaged a career high 11.4 points per game a season ago, should continue to see major minutes as the team mixes and matches against opposing defenses. Tune in later tomorrow for a wrap of the Wizards preview as the focus turns toward the frontcourt players.