Washington Wizards Postseason Preview

Playoffs?!  For the first time in five years, the Washington Wizards will be making the trip to the NBA’s post season.  The last time Washington was in playoff contention, the big three of Gilbert Arenas, Caron Butler, and Antwan Jamison were leading the way until an untimely series of events unraveled the Wizards franchise.

Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

This go around, Washington is poised for a run of playoff appearances with the core of the team full of youthful exuberance.  John Wall will also be making his first post-season appearance since being drafted in 2010.  Much of the pressure throughout the League’s dramatic conclusion will rest on the shoulders of Wall, who after receiving a maximum contract must elevate his level of play.

Now that the position is solidified, the Wizards will be jockeying for seeding and must determine which side of the bracket they hope to play from.  Washington currently holds the number six seed, which may be the most ideal spot.  With the Toronto Raptors sitting as the third seed, the Wizards went 1-3 against their potential first round matchup.  The Raptors and Chicago Bulls are currently tied with a 47-33 record and if Toronto slips up in any way the Bulls will be their to solidify the third seed.  Washington finished with a record of 2-1 against the Bulls, who the Wizards appear to match up very favorably against.

Washington, however, must avoid slipping down to the number seven seed which would line them up with a first round series with the two-time defending NBA Champion Miami Heat.  The Wizards must keep up their intensity in order to come into the playoffs clicking on all cylinders and more importantly eluding the Heat.