Last night, the Wizards lost out on their opportunity to eliminate the team from playoff contention that eliminated them from the playoffs last season. In a 99-95 double overtime loss, Indiana knew they were in a must win situation, and player their hearts out. Once double overtime game, the Pacers simply wanted to be in the playoffs more than the Wizards wanted to keep them out of the playoffs.
The Wizards were without Nene, and seemed to be without Paul Pierce as he did not score any points in the game. Nene was out for rest, so luckily Wizards fans do not have to be worried about him, but Pierce should have been able to do more in his time. Everybody knows once playoff time comes, Paul Pierce will never have a game similar to that of last night, so really nothing should be scaring fans in DC.
Bradley Beal also went through his fair share of struggles, but made up for it with some big baskets late in the game. Beal went cold in certain moments, which led to his 7/24 shooting night that included 19 points, 9 rebounds, an assist, and a steal. Beal’s clutch factor certainly rose and will be in full swing for the Wizards playoff run.
The MVP of the night for the Wizards was Marcin Gortat, who offensively scored 19 points on 8/13 shooting, grabbed 10 rebounds, and recorded a steal. Defensively, Gortat’s effort held Roy Hibbert to 6 points on 3/10 shooting. If Gortat could have gotten some additional touches, some easy points would have gone onto the scoreboard for Washington, and they could have gotten their revenge on Indiana.
The bench gave Randy Wittman some solid minutes in this game when they were needed most. Otto Porter once again proved he is ready for a larger role with the Wizards next season after his performance that included 10 points, 7 rebounds, and an assist. Ramon Sessions, Kris Humphries, and Rasual Butler all scored at least 6 points while performing in minimal playing time.
The last game of the season for the Wizards will take place in Cleveland, where many starters for both teams will likely be taking the night off to get ready for playoffs. Both teams already have their playoff sports clinched up and can use the game as a final dress rehearsal as they look to make some noise in the playoffs. The bench players in Cleveland are still very productive, and should give the Wizards a good matchup no matter who is out on the court tonight.
