Here we are, another year with the Washington Wizards. As everyone celebrated with the usual New Years’ intoxication, reminiscing on the past experiences of 2013 and making resolutions for the new year ahead, the boys in Washington were hoping to achieve a well deserved winning record (a feat that has avoided them since Oct. 2009). As it turns out, the first day of 2014 would not accept the thought of such happiness as the Wizards began their New Year short against the Dallas Mavericks, 78 – 87.
The score doesn’t give the Wiz its due justice as there were 10+ lead changes throughout the game, a battle that was only close because of the off games for a few players. With point guard John Wall ending the game with 22 points, 5 assists and 7 rebounds, he has been the most consistent player on the floor night in and night out. But the supporting cast was not behind him like they have been in recent play.
Shooting guard Bradley Beal played one of his most quiet games this season compared to his minutes on the court. He was unable to get into a rhythm as Dallas shooting guard Monte Ellis was making things difficult with strong defensive play. Beal ended with 10 points, four of 11 from the field. Neither forwards for Washington — Trevor Ariza or Martell Webster — could get going from behind the three, shooting two of 13, with the rest of the team ending five of 24 from behind the arc. Nene Hilario was a no show. He didn’t start this game and it seemed to affect his overall performance and mood throughout, finishing with four points and fouling out. Teammate Trevor Booker, on the contrary, had one of the biggest games of his career with 10 points and 19 rebounds, finding himself at the right place at the right time for most of the game.
Overall, the Wizards played a dismal game, letting Dallas get the win and scoring the least points of this season in the process.
Dallas’ performance was just as weak as the Wizards, but with Ellis scoring a game-high 23 points with one assist, he was able to lead his team to a victory. Mavericks’ forward Dirk Nowitzki had a season-low nine points — an embarrassing game for him — and was “injured” in their first possession of play but came back about 7-8 minutes into the game.
The Wizards missed their opportunity to surpass a .500 record for the second time this season. But seeing as how there are still 50+ games to be played, there will be plenty of chances to leap over the losing record hump and continue to battle for that second place spot in the Southeast Division.
Evan Burnett is an NBA credentialed media member who covers the Washington Wizards for Sports Journey. He is a creative and talented videographer as well. Find Mr. Burnett’s work on www.sportsjourney.com