The Wizards got out to a huge lead tonight when they visited Cleveland, but ended up blowing the lead, and eventually having to fight back to even get the game into overtime. The game could have been put away early, but the Wiz missed out on an opportunity to get closer to their goal of a 50 win season. The possibility of a 50 win season may have already ended, but being right there would help them work towards the goal next season.
Martell Webster came off the bench like he was trying to show Randy Wittman he should have been played more throughout the season after his recovery from injury was over. Webster scored 20 points on 5/9 shooting, grabbed 3 rebounds, and assisted on 2 other scores in 35 minutes of play. Webster was able to see an increased role due to the Wizards resting 4 out of 5 starters.
Another standout for the Wizards was guard Rasual Butler, who was getting his first start of the season. Butler hit some clutch shots late in the game to bring the Wizards back in his game that included 17 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and a block. Butler will likely see his fair share of time in the playoffs, and the 44 minutes he played tonight will certainly get him ready for when every game matters in the playoffs.
In the last 10 seconds, the Wizards were called for a 5 second count, and threw the ball right to the Cavs. Cutting down on mistakes like these are not only a must in the last few seconds of a game, but are a key to victory throughout the duration of an entire game. The role players may have just not been ready to make the shot that mattered in a clutch situation.
The Wizards begin their quest for a championship on Saturday when they fly to Toronto to take of the Raptors. Being able to give players more opportunities certainly will help the Wizards when the bench comes in for certain opportunities. Only time will tell how rest and opportunity help the Wizards in the playoffs.
