Mid-season Report: Washington Wizards

After 52 games, and the National Basketball League’s mid waypoint, the Washington Wizards garner a mediocre 25-27 record.  This simple fact, however, doesn’t describe the Wizards above average play in the weak Eastern Conference.  Currently, Washington holds the fourth seed, and the Wizards roster has shown great growth in 2013-14.   Below is breakdown of the member-by-member grading of Washington’s play thus far:

John Wall, Point Guard-  After signing a max deal in the offseason, expectations were remarkably high for Wall and improvement needed to be mad in order to validate the contract.  Needless to say, Wall has made every right move in his fourth season, and has improved almost every statistical category ranging from points to free throw percentage.  As rewarding as his All-Star selection was, the next move for Wall is to go from being a good to excellent guard, and that level is derived from playoff success.  Grade 92

Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Bradley Beal, Shooting Guard-  To be truthful, when Washington drafted Bradley Beal two season ago, I was extremely skeptical.  Yes, Beal was an excellent scorer, but playing in the poor SEC Conference, who knew if his scoring abilities would translate into a prolific NBA player.  Well, I would like to apologize to Mr. Beal because outside of his brief injury, Bradley has been outstanding in his sophomore season.  Grade: 89

Trevor Ariza, Small Forward-  Washington suspected who the team’s two scoring leaders would be, but what was more mind numbing was the surfacing of Trevor Ariza as the team’s third scoring threat.  Currently, Ariza is on pace to shatter almost every statistical career best he has produced in his 9-year career.  If he can maintain his production, Ariza would be a prime candidate for an extension.  Grade: 84

Nene Hilario, Power Forward-  The twin towers of the Washington backcourt begins with the highlighting of power forward, Nene.  The 12-year veteran has been a valuable asset down low splitting time Trevor Booker.  Washington has seen increased scoring from Nene, and although he needs to improve his rebounding is happy to admire the increased efficiency. Grade: 83

Marcin Gortat, Center-  When Washington acquired Marcin Gortat for Emeka Okafor and a first round pick, several analysts covering the Wizards steamed over the deal.  Thus far, the trade has panned out well for the Wizards, and Marcin has been among the conferences best big man.  Grade: 85