Game Day Thunder
11:20 AM…..Dave Johnson checking in….assembling toys can get one side tracked….I think we all are very proud of the effort against the Cavaliers…let’s hope Domenic McGuire and Mike James continue their progress….how about McGuire with 7 assists to go with his 11 rebounds and of course James with 26 points….I look at that stat sheet and I see LeBron James held 10 points below his average..I see us go even with the Cavaliers on the boards…we also had the advantage on points in the paint where the Cavaliers dominate…bring the same effort and execution and a good chance at a win against the Thunder..have to get used to saying Thunder……BLOGCAST..and we had a great one on Christmas night with over 600 posts and at least a dozen calls to the post-game show….the BLOGCAST–radio and blogging–starts at 7 and can be heard on ESPN 980 AM in Washington…94.3 FM in Warrenton and Northern Virginia…92.7 FM in Southern Maryland and 1370 AM in Baltimore……plus there will be a listen live link and remember we have stations in Cumberland and Annapolis, Md……Leesburg, Richmond and Roanoke Virginia..and Martinsburg, West Virginia…
6:40 PM…Dave Johnson checking in…it will be just me tonight…Glenn is still under the weather….Wizards starters…No Caron Butler because of a sprained left ankle…..Mike James Nick Young Dominic McGuire, Antawn Jamison and Andray Blatche will start… the Thunder will go with Russell Westbrook, Desmond Mason, Kevin Durant Jeff Green and Joe Smith
DAVE JOHNSON POSTGAME REPORT
Posted: December 27th, 2008 under Wizards.
Comments
Comment from dmac
Time December 27, 2008 at 3:36 PM
DJ I was reading on hoopshype.com the other day that there is a possibility that Gil won’t be back this season.
Is there any truth to that?
Also I am not happy that JaVale has not been playing and that we have not played Javaris more. I am puzzled by the coaching staff and the excuses that they make for certain players not playing. Why in the world would Tapscott not play these guy’s. If other teams can play their young guy’s then what is up with us. We have not won two games in a row yet this season. It is not like somebody is going to come in and mess with the chemistry.
If it means some of the veterans will play less then so be it. Those are not rookies losing focus at the end of games. The way they do these young guy’s on the roster is not fair. Right now Nick don’t seem to have the confidence he had earlier in the season. When you come on the floor and are worried that if you don’t hit a shot or if you do make a mistake that you will sit for the next 2 or 3 games without getting many minutes.
Comment from wtop
Time December 27, 2008 at 4:16 PM
Dmac do not believe those blogs because I think that Arenas is back this year. WE NEED A WIN DEFINTELY TONIGHT Csn has our pre game coverage at 6pm on a 1 hour edition of sportsnite with Chris Miller from Verizon center GO WIZARDS LETS BEAT THE THUNDER GO WIZARDS GO one another note we play Antonio Daniels team on new years eve on wb 50
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 5:08 PM
the other night he had a chat with a TNT guy about wanting to be back today but they would not let him said to take some more time so they know he is going to be 100% and he would be back around the end of the month he hoped.
Comment from GlingGling
Time December 27, 2008 at 5:42 PM
Dmac and Wizards4Life, don’t believe anything Gil says. 
Not that he is a liar but he likes to talk, he likes to trick people, and he likes to surprise people. Use your instincts when believing what comes out of Gil’s mouth.
I sadly missed the last two games due to holiday traveling. I would have loved to see Dominic’s game. I hope he gets mad minutes tonight. And I haven’t seen Caron at the two yet, or is it one (haha… look at those assists).
Go Wiz!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 5:45 PM
You know what I just continue to scratch my head with all of the DNP’s with a team that has 22 L’s, McGee, Dixon and Javaris, and Nick’s minutes up and down. I have been wanting to see Dixon, it just makes no sense he is not playing, and even more troubling is that Blatche and McGee cannot get on the floor together, so I will say this Coach, if you are not going to play Dixon (not sure why) can you at least play Javaris? We did think so much of this guy that if he were available in the draft we would have snatched him up, I mean I can see in the first week not getting the minutes but now? Our offensive is that hard to pick up? And McGee has had an entire training camp and our starting Center is out and he cannot get on the floor? Etan is a vet that played back up to Haywood, and he gets 2 minutes every 5 games? And Pesh, can someone please explain to me our short and long term goal with him, we could not use a 7ft guy that can shoot? No pick n roll offense for him? Party John got more run than this guy, wow! I have been preaching the same all year use the bench, do not run the starters into the ground, and over the last 7 games it has shown (18 pt avg in the 4th). We are a perimeter team that needs to become more of a low post scoring team, I almost had tears of joy to watch Blatche go to work on the block against the Cavs, Caron with more post up’s on the 2 guards, beautiful, so then what takes place we start launching jumpers? We are mmost effective with ball movement and inside out game, not selfish one on one basketball with getting it to ball stoppers and jackin’ up jump shots! Scoring is not all we needed in the backcourt, assists to me are more important, and lane penetration. Juan, continue to stay professional not sure what is going on but you really have improved and hopefully we can see more of you on display. Javaris, I heard after the Cavs game you were wondering when you would get minutes, I know it is all too logical to think that we traded for you and that you were at the end of the mench for the Grizz certainly a trade would give you a chance to show your talent right? Keep your head up and focused maybe sooner or later we will play to win games and not just evaluate talent.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 5:55 PM
And let me just say on a side note: I am very proud of Durant and Green some local guys that can really ball, man the DMV are sure putting some players in the NBA
Dixon, Blake and Wilcox(UMD Grads)
Delonte West, Rudy Gay, Beasley, S Francis, J Smith, Iverson, J Jack, R Mason Jr and Melo. I love hoops in the DMV the present day is great and the future is brighter!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:07 PM
Mike James Quote after the Cavs game
The main thing is to continue to stay aggressive,” James said. “I’m trying to be a leader and help this team get W’s.
“I haven’t won a game yet in a Wizard uniform, so I’m looking forward to the time that we can string some wins together.”
I guess we need more leadership?? Let’s get some W’s guys and try for a 2 game winning streak
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:21 PM
hello JeffM,
In about 45 minutes, we shall see. MJ can penetrate, so if he can penetrate and dish off also, along with the “home cooking”, he may be just what the dr ordered.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:45 PM
6:40 PM…Dave Johnson checking in…it will be just me tonight…Glenn is still under the weather….Wizards starters…No Caron Butler because of a sprained left ankle…..Mike James Nick Young Dominic McGuire, Antawn Jamison and Andray Blatche will start… the Thunder will go with Russell Westbrook, Desmond Mason, Kevin Durant Jeff Green and Joe Smith
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:46 PM
Hey guys, i have a great feeling about tonight!! If the guys show the passion and energy they showed the other night + considering the thunders played a high intensity game just yesterday…. We have a least a shot!! (dave if just seen you, if you feel like passing around section 109 help yourself 
i’m the guy wearing a home arenas jersey with no t-shirt under…yes i look crazy…)
Anyway as previously said i hope crittenton and mcgee get to see more minutes, i also hope we’ll be in an early comfortable position!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:48 PM
Hey Dave—Get well soon Glenn, wow no CB3 huh? Well I guess Young will have a chance to get his “swag” back he and DMAC on the floor should work well together. Here’s to a win dcbulter-and you are correct we will see
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:51 PM
sprained left ankle
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:52 PM
Dave will this be a game to game injury? Or could he miss a couple of weeks?
Comment from jenda
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:53 PM
Hey guys,
Im from Australia, so we dont get much info down here. I was just wondering if there was any more info on the possible return date of gilbert Arenas? How far along is he on his rehab? is he training at full pace?
Cheers guys
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 6:58 PM
Wow, with CB3 out will James and Nick work well together AND CREATE the ball movement. Both are dribbles, and against the CAVS it was passes that helped. Wish NY the best; hopefully he’ll be ready and do well in the starting spot!! Of course my best to Dom and Andray. THey are doing just GREAT!! I would think we’d see Juan tonight due to CB3’s ankle injury; we will need him off the bench as well as Dsteve. I don’t know about Blatche and JaVAle ever getting to play together!! It sure would create some problems; I’d like to see that, too!! Stay well TEAM and go hard tonight!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:00 PM
Oh, I’m so sorry I mean both are dribblers!! Oopps my bad!!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:00 PM
jenda welcome…..still no update on Arenas..but we hope you stay with us,…. we used to be the bulllets
i think you had the brisbane bullets
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:01 PM
oh wow, no caron. One more reasons why our bench/young guys need to step up tonight! I hope we will see alot of mcgee and javaris! Keep up the ballmovement from the last game, don’t rely on outside shooting, and i hope mikey is still hot
GO ZARDS
W5.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:02 PM
hey slwiz-here’s to a win, assists and ball movement and great team play from the starters and the bench
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:03 PM
I hope CB3’s alright… I aint like we could afford injuries…
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:03 PM
listen live link that works
http://player.streamtheworld.com/liveplayer.php?callsign=WVIEAM
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:03 PM
hey hey jeff; starting out positive!!! Now let’s get the win and oh yeah, maybe it will be Javarius off the bench and Juan!!! LOL
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:08 PM
well i hope with all hope that CB3 just needs a rest i think we can win this still and here is a chance for N1 to show what he is made of and we might even get to see Juan(DNP)Dixon tonight and even J. (i cant get no mins) McGee
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:09 PM
good to see you tonight Wiz4L-I knew you felt my pain,lol
Comment from Jgarcia104
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:11 PM
come on nick lets do it big tonight
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:12 PM
I work as a radio engineer at the Martinsburg, WV affiliate AM 740 WRNR. We listen out here too.
Yours,
Devin
D.McD.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:12 PM
Thanks for the shout Dave!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:12 PM
refs please call fairly tonight!!!
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:12 PM
anyone got another link to the live cast i cant get the nba.com one to work
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:13 PM
Yeah, dj and sorry glens still out!! We need his voice along with yours; don’t want yours to give out!! LOL
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:13 PM
http://player.streamtheworld.com/liveplayer.php?callsign=WVIEAM
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:14 PM
Ahh… my job just got easier. LoL.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:14 PM
Stay active Blatche, keep up your great play
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:15 PM
like those drives!!! Make them defend!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:16 PM
ok guys OKC is starting hot, let’s get it locked in on D
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:17 PM
D is going to have to catch up with Caron out its going to be hard to swtich like b4
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:17 PM
Don’t lose your voice, Dave. Sip plenty of water between sentences.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:18 PM
This is not the tempo the Wiz want to play, this is OKC’s type of game
Comment from Jgarcia104
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:19 PM
i hope i didnt jinx him =x
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:22 PM
Young w\5 pts and 3 reb, early love the energy to start, “Get your swag back kid”
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:22 PM
need the pass what to put it down and take your time
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:22 PM
Like the offence, don’t like the defence so much. But we’re starting to get into the game, keep it coming!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:22 PM
JeffM,
That’s what we were talking about…MJ driving and dishing. it’s coming along ok
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:23 PM
Pardon the cliche, but where’s that Wizard’s magic? Gilbert didn’t really make the team, did he? I thought we had much more than that. Wow. That was a wierd commercial break.
D. McD.
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:23 PM
2nd chance point off Dom’s rebounding!! Seems they are inside more than outside? Keep going guys!!!
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:23 PM
We gotta fight for those rebounds…
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:25 PM
dcbutler-again I would love to see our PG get at least 7-10 assists a game, we need ball movement not just the 2 all stars jacking 20 plus shots a game, I love when the PG (whomever it is) sets the tempo of the game with ball movement, passing and cutting to me has been Wizards winning basketball.
Comment from wtop
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:25 PM
How long will Caron be out for
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:25 PM
MCGUIRE!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:26 PM
The start reminds me of the Cavs game, evergy and effort, lets learn from our mistakes and not go back to launching 3’s and continue to get the ball to the open man down low
Comment from Jgarcia104
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:26 PM
dixon does a good job of that jeff. when hes in the game as a starter hes a tempo first offense second score 3rd. while off the bench hes more of a tempo scorer type of player
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:26 PM
Now Dom’s drivin; blatche was earlier; milk that guys!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:26 PM
bROKE HIS ANKLES
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:27 PM
That’s my man MJ!!!!!!
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:27 PM
i wish D. Steve would get on track we need him as well
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:27 PM
Antawn might be warmin’ up!!!! Go Tawn. and now Mike James hits, go guys go!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:27 PM
I was referring to the drive by MJ…OK, gotta cheer on DSteve,
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:28 PM
I’m just blog filler. I’m a newbie Wizards fan. Don’t know much about the team yet.
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:28 PM
Just cant feel my face…
Comment from wtop
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:28 PM
When did Caron injury happen he played on thursday
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:28 PM
good sign DSteve hits his first shot! swagger
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:29 PM
NICE hustle Nick, adda boy! And Mike hits again…i like it ;>
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:29 PM
wtop i think it was that last play were he ran into Ben
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:29 PM
Nice comeback. Can we maintain it?
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:29 PM
We cannot stop them, c’mon D
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:29 PM
MJ has picked this team up
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:30 PM
If Mike James continues this blue print of pass first we will be ok, already 4 assists in the 1st qtr
Comment from Jgarcia104
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:30 PM
this is arenas like tempo… oh those were the days…
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:31 PM
Young 7 pts 3 rebounds, good start
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:31 PM
The best thing is that the players are more willing to fill the lanes and get a layup…..ITS CONTAGIOUS
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:32 PM
My main concern right now is their 3point percentage…
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:33 PM
Wiz 7 assists only 1 TO thus far a great start let’s keep it up
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:33 PM
9 points off 5 thunder turnovers
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:33 PM
Good to ses juan!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:33 PM
They seem to be in back to back games with ball movement and drives; love this kind of offense; more exciting then “thunk” outside shots!!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:33 PM
dixon back in and scores
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:34 PM
ok, no length of court layups…
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:34 PM
Juan Dixon, thank you in advance Coach Tap
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:34 PM
Hey Hey Juan in for Young!! sorry it’s not javarus but take advantage juan!! go guy go!!!
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:34 PM
lol, game will end 150 to 130 wiz win? Gotta step up on the D here 
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:35 PM
JUAAAAAAAANN!! DIXOOOOOONN!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:36 PM
33 pts in the 1st, great ball movement, but man can either team play team D, man!
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:36 PM
need to learn this little thing i call the box out… its cool to use when there gettin like 40 put back dunks
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:36 PM
James got that alright!! Man we do need some D though; come on coach give them some good adjustments for the 2nd quarter!!!
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:37 PM
Have go do something about those secnd chance points!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:37 PM
Dom has to play Durant….gotta know where he is at all times.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:38 PM
I will give James some love 5 assists in the first, that is what we need from him, pick your spots on offense. And is it me but everytime Juan gets into the game he plays well
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:38 PM
Wilcox is in also U Md grad on champ team with Juan
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:40 PM
LOL…It looked like NY AND JUAN walked on that one….home refs help….LOL
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:41 PM
all rook and bench doing the thing out there
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:41 PM
..heh, some months ago i’d bet hugge money that nick would take that shot himself. Nice ballmovement!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:43 PM
Ok, this unit needs to practice with each other more…LOL..But it’s exciting
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:43 PM
WHERE’S THE D? mcgee trying hard at the boards, like the effort. But still..we gotta work on the defence!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:44 PM
dcbutler357 I was thinking the same thing!! They don’t seem to have the ball movement that we need!!
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:45 PM
McGee is funny he trys to run up and just take the rebound he needs more groth and needs to learn to hold your man off the boards and let the ball start to come down and go after it
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:45 PM
we are getting outrebounded but we have 7 steals so guess that counts some as defense.
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:46 PM
Figures… We’re never consistant!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:46 PM
okay Tap watch our bench!!!
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:47 PM
I’m a blog rookie from Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:49 PM
thomas ius hustling
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:49 PM
Thats the Etan of old!! Glad to see it!!
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:50 PM
what’s up wizards fans. time to make some noise!!!
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:50 PM
JAAAAAAAAAMISOOOOOOOOONN!!!
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:51 PM
dcbutler yes that is the etan of old, throwing the ball down like that!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:52 PM
good game so far tag flip!!! and we got the lead!!!
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:52 PM
wow.. that definitely looked like all ball on dray
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:52 PM
Blatch really improved his game offensively. You can really see the things he learned from Antawn and other guys. Keep going!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:53 PM
indeed good to see etan back in the flow…..thunder with 10 turnovers 11 wizards points off those turnovers
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:53 PM
its going to be who can out score who if you ask me because i have yet to see any D from eather team
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:53 PM
Who thinks we’ll being winning by halftime?
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:54 PM
bloggers by the way record christmas night number of posts
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:54 PM
Well as you said it gotta do something about those follow dunks!! But i appreciate the energy, especially etan!
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:54 PM
NICE!!!
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:56 PM
Durant, you can’t.
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:56 PM
nice spin move by dray… didn’t he have a then-career game in a 40-some point blowout against this franchise (back when they were in seattle) his rookie year?
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:57 PM
Andray is having a great game so far!!!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 7:58 PM
dray has been strong all night…
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:00 PM
This job is so easy. LoL. I love plugging commercials for Wizards games.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:02 PM
great effort thus far
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:03 PM
another steal and a bucket!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:04 PM
Two good defensive stands to end the quarter…needed that.
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:04 PM
yeah, ball movement by James to Antawn!!!
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:05 PM
…and the lead to halftime. Yes, nice effort. Great game by Dray; Mike and Etan also looking good. Dmac like always… if we would play better defence now, we could easily take this one!
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:05 PM
We could be leading by way more, lets hope we keep up for the second half!
Comment from gbkdc
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:06 PM
Hey I’m at dinner, GO WIZ, I’ll hopefully catch the end. On phone, FYI
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:07 PM
way cool gbkdc
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:07 PM
That ten second station ID creeped up on me. I almost missed it.
Comment from CB3
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:08 PM
lets go wizards. i really have missed the blog, my computer has been down.
Comment from CB3
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:09 PM
so glenn is still out?
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:10 PM
With a season like this, the flag has been lowered altogether. Folded and put away until Gilbert gets better. There. I said it.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:12 PM
yes glenn sick
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:13 PM
visiting with ivan carter of the post at half time
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:13 PM
Regardless? It’s BECAUSE of the record that we need Zero. If we were doing well, we’d probably trade him!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:16 PM
ivan crater will be with us fior the third
Comment from CB3
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:17 PM
maybe he can bring us some luck
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:21 PM
yeah, have to agree with the csn moderators. Give them pressure, “put the hammer on these guys”, continue to attack the rim! And make the lead bigger and bigger. GO ZARDS
Comment from DeeEmceeDee
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:22 PM
Ivan’s working so far. Make him stay until the end of the game. D.McD. in W.V.
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:23 PM
CB3 i was hoping you’d get tixs for the game; guess not, huh!!
Gbkdc I was looking for ya!! Hope your enjoying dinner.!
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:24 PM
blatche and mcguire are playing awesome tonight!
Comment from CB3
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:24 PM
yea slwiz, i went up to the verizon center because i was in dc but i couldn’t get tickets. as long as we win al be happy
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:26 PM
Yeah, a win would be so nice; maybe ivan with dj; “our gal” at dinner on the phone; jeff having his gift with juan; and the other good, no GREAT things happening will bring us the win!!! Go Wiz!!
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:27 PM
Mike james 8assists already, blatche with the double double 10/10!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:28 PM
James with 8 assists; he’s really looking for “his guys”!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:28 PM
hey phemy we were thinking of james at the same time!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:31 PM
jeff still in here; looks like jamison’s getting fewer minutes and is HOT!!
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:31 PM
I hope not, better give him some rest at some time. We got other guys who can score tonight as it seems ;>
yeah slwiz…it’s just “unusual” for a wizard player to have high assists i guess..sad as it is..
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:32 PM
I would think next time out our bench would be coming in; there’s the horn…
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:32 PM
uh oh, we don’t have natural “big” men in…DMac gotta work o.t.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:33 PM
coool, may not need natural “big”
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:34 PM
dom mcguire good stuff
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:34 PM
Mike really is “getting it” TEAM ball!! Way to go guy!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:35 PM
10 assists for James and 10 boards for Blatche, great efforts thus far
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:35 PM
yeah, gotta grab myself a jersey with the #5 i guess 
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:36 PM
slwiz-always good when they can get a rest (Jamison)
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:37 PM
Jmison is still in
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:37 PM
Man Dom is really “getting it” too on rebounding and hustle!! He’s really trying to fill the shoes ED t has asked of him!!! Are some of the pieces coming together!!! Whoo Whooo
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:40 PM
This would be a great time to rest James and Jamison, get Juan and McGee in the game
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:40 PM
man.. mike james is starting to shoot like stevenson >.<
cmon guys, no quick shots
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:41 PM
james 10 assits
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:42 PM
thank you Ivan-preach to the choir
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:42 PM
Take James out the game
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:43 PM
another double double for Blatche, another great effort
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:44 PM
James and Jamison both out now; about 50 seconds or so by yaoo.com
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:44 PM
..man we need to execute! Calm down, pass the ball! Stop shooting quick contested jumpshots…the usual stuff…
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:45 PM
Durant is so smooth
Comment from M2
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:45 PM
Tom M – when you check in after the game let me know if you’re still feeling like AD for James was a bad move? It’s not even a realistic question.
I’m not saying I love James, but c’mon… I veteran guard that can actually put pressure on the defense… No brainer trade… Only a few weeks in & everyone has been able to figure that out.
& Crit’s upside for Dee Brown’s release?
Anyway, 8-0 run for OKC to finish the 3rd?
This is a team that CAN NOT BEAT US DOWN THE STRETCH… It will NOT happen!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:45 PM
alright guys settle down regroup for the 4th!! Stop that run!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:46 PM
ok, so I am going to say it again, DO NOT COME OUT WITH THE STARTERS TO BEGIN THE 4TH QTR, rest them for the stretch, let the bench start see if we can jump on them
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:47 PM
wiz finsih one of 11 at the end of quarter did attack did not finish
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:47 PM
great enthusiasm M2 yes, we will stop this 3rd quarter run; get our ball movement going; not settle for jumpers and play D!! Let’s go Wiz!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:48 PM
Wizards last 7 games avg 18 in the 4th
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:48 PM
hey hey, ivan’s stickin’!! Alright our bench is still resting the starters. Let’s play hard guys!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:49 PM
Surely we’ll get a few more tonight in the 4th!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:49 PM
you got to give Juan more run, no matter when he plays, he plays well
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:50 PM
Let’s use their TOs now and take back the lead and increase it! Safe points now please, draw fouls!
..still we’re hitting them right now, good to see.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:51 PM
GROWING UP BEFORE OUR VERY EYES!!
I AM IMPRESSED!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:51 PM
Coach Tap this is why you play your bench
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:52 PM
And this is the bench!!! Whoo Whoo. With Dom and Dray!!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:53 PM
Well CSN showed a interview where he just said he will play the bench more, since his 8-2 or whatever plan he was using didn’t work.
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:53 PM
yes sir eeee…. Let the young ones play!!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:54 PM
dcbutler thanks for that info!!! Hey SportzWiz is there a link for that someplace!!! Maybe post it tomorrow!!! VEry important recognition!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:56 PM
one big reason for this lead is that the middle has been shut down…KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:56 PM
wizards goign small
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:57 PM
OMG WHY THIS LINEUP
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 8:59 PM
Where my Juan Dixon fans at?
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:00 PM
jeff, there’s “your boy” Juan, Whoo Whooo!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:01 PM
slwiz-I will never understand how in the world he goes games without playing
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:01 PM
There is a rebounding battle going on and blatche and etan are holding there own!! Hange in there wiz!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:01 PM
How many pints we have in 4th thus far
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:02 PM
what the heck are you guys doing playing Dee Brown Music…. LOVE IT!!!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:02 PM
17 by yahoo.com
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:02 PM
I think its 19 right now
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:03 PM
21 and counting!!!
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:03 PM
no fair you guys have TV!!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:04 PM
23 and counting….lol..
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:05 PM
so play these guys more,right
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:05 PM
Who said we had tv….lol….we’re blogging.
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:06 PM
Ed said he uses 7game stretches to test out linups/combinations, and today started the next one, and he mentioned that the last one “didnt work out so well”. So yeah, he hopefully will use these guys more often now ;>
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:06 PM
well, most of ya Watch and type; me I just got good old dj/glen and tonight ivan!!! LOL
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:07 PM
Ed already said he was going to play them more. The fruits of your labor
Comment from zbp18
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:07 PM
What’s up everybody,
Juan’s having a good game tonight. If Tap can’t see that we need to play Juan every game then, we need an interim coach for our current interim coach.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:07 PM
professionalism of dixon and thomas steped inand steopped up
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:07 PM
I’m so glad that 7 game stretch is O-v-e-r!!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:07 PM
Phemy-he said that 7 game plan stuff, I hope we never hear about that again, it needs to be game to game
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:08 PM
TV or no tv, we’re all in this together.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:08 PM
Yes, VERY PROFESSIONAL
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:09 PM
I hope we see a lot more of Dixon, and McGee and Young, stick with these guys
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:09 PM
great pass mcguire
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:09 PM
Oh yeah, nice ball movement! Extra pass after extra pass!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:10 PM
Blatche may have played one of hus best games tonight
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:11 PM
We are approaching a 30 point qrtr(okay, i’m done with this topic)
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:11 PM
exclamation point for AB
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:12 PM
Mike James is gunnin’ man, slow your roll, take your 9 pts and assists and be happy
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:12 PM
no, dcbuler enjoy this as long as we can!!!! Dom still hustling; Dray still hustling!!! It’s HOOPS for real!!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:13 PM
DMAC got the post-game interview before leaving the court!!
Comment from zbp18
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:13 PM
Our guys played well tonight, is there anyway we can play OKC about 40 more times!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Go Wiz!!!!!!
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:13 PM
nice play by every player loved it sorry i did not post much got lost in the fast pace out there gooooood to get that W
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:15 PM
Great game, special shoutout to AB, Dmac, MJ and as usually Tawn!!! That sure feels good.
Comment from gbkdc
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:16 PM
Yay!!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:17 PM
31 assist on 45 made field goals
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:17 PM
What I liked the best is they played like they did against the Cavs; back to back energy; hustle; ball movement, fewer long range bombs, more drives and penetration; wonderful steals; rebounding; didn’t stop till the final buzzer!!! Back to Back!!!
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:17 PM
Yeah, awesome games by Andray and Dom, wow! Offence and Defence, nice rebounding, attacking the rim moving the ball.
Also great games by Etan and Mike. Etan showed great energy and will, Mike had some great assist. But still he should calm down a little bit behind the 3point line if he’s not hitting…but still..great games!
And the other guys also were good, great team effort! Forcing many turnovers!
KEEP THIS TYPE OF PLAY! GOOOO WIZARDS
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:17 PM
it is me onj the post gam,e show 301-230-0980 i invite you call
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:17 PM
great team effort tonight, great ball movement and assists, rebounded the ball well
Comment from M2
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:18 PM
Gold Stars for:
DOM
BLATCHE
JAMES (if for no other reason than his 11 assists)
& Jamison put up decent numbers
Really everyone played well (save DSS, I’m obviously on record several times with my thoughts about him). We did it without CB3 but against the leagues worst team so there’s perspective for you either way.
GREAT win! Very necessary…
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:18 PM
gbkdc-DMAC is getting better every night
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:19 PM
M2-Gold Star for Coach Tap he played Dixon and ET, and again Dixon produced
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:20 PM
How long will Caron be out?
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:21 PM
Blatche and DMac are stat stuffers, wow great play
Comment from Phemy
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:22 PM
…let’s just hope this win was not the reason OKC gets the first, and we the second draft pick!
Hah, just kidding
GO WIZARDS, keep the energy! Gonna need it for the next game!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:24 PM
These guys played team ball and AB ATTACKED the basket (a few fade-away shots, but it’s all good). The TEAM showed discipline and a will to win. These guys are ready to look ahead. This is two games in a row, just like slwiz stated earlier.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:25 PM
Blatche stated that Abe had a talk with the team before the game
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:27 PM
Etan gave us good minutes tonight
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:28 PM
jeffm,
Is there more info about the “talk”?
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:30 PM
That hasn’t been said of etan too much; so he’ll be happy to read these comments!!! Go Etan!!! Keep boxing out and rebounding!!! and oh yeah phil said they played the whole 48 minutes and those last two plays with dom and andray proved that!! Team Hustle right to the final buzzer!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:32 PM
dcbutler-not as of yet, Blatche talked about it in the Post Game maybe we can get more details
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:33 PM
Deshawn only 3 pts but he did have 6 assists
Comment from slwiz
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:35 PM
But that 3 pointer was sure timely!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:39 PM
For the future, I’m thinking JD should be the player to relieve MJ.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:40 PM
amen dcbutler
Comment from LilGil
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:42 PM
Honestly, I was impressed by Etan. It’s good to have him playing strong and getting good rebounds. Blatche brought the “good-looking” plays tonight, couple of spins and fake shots, that was well done, D-mac was also amazingly strong with the rebounds, as usually and well Dixon proved why he should be played more. One guy wasn’t smiling tonight… Crittenton…. sorry my man I thought you’d play a bit…
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:44 PM
Well, next stop Houston. A game we should have won earlier this year, also. Two in a row would suit me just fine.
Comment from neal
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:44 PM
I saw the last third of the game. They looked good, in spite of some defensive breakdowns.
The players that looked good to me:
McGuire
Blatche
Thomas
Jamison
Dixon
Songaila
James
Young
Thomas has been kinda forgotten in the center competition between Blatche and McGee. He played very well at the beginning of the year. Good to see him back and playing well. He still occasionally misses rotations, however.
How many assists did Jamison have? 11? I don’t think I’ve ever seen that. Congrats to him and the coaching staff. And congrats to James and the rest of the team for 30 assists.
Could it be that we bottomed out and are now, with no expectations, in a good mental place to gradually improve?
Comment from neal
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:46 PM
Three point shots are an important part of the game. We need to get much better at it. Maybe better penetration to allow kick-outs?
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:47 PM
Lil Gil and dcbutler-can you guys tell me why Dixon gets the DNP’s? He has played well all year, Etan had 4 pts, 7 reb, 2 blks in limited action, good minutes from him and Blatche 19pts 15 reb 4 assts 3 steals 1 blk and DMAC 12pts 8reb 4 assists 1 blk stat lines were really good tonight
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 9:59 PM
Hopefully his DNPs are a thing of the past. It seemed the loyalty to the veterans, which put us in this hole in the first place, is slowly evaporating. It’s just sad that it took almost half of the season to recognize it.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:01 PM
juan is a veteran too right? hopefully it is a thing of the past
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:03 PM
Yeah, but the veterans that were here already, and got us to the playoffs, got all the luv at a first. Sometimes, some things are personal too. But being the professional that he is, JD ain’t gonna have his words on the “front page”, voicing his opinions.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:05 PM
Another thing about JD, all this stuff about no other team wanting him, etc……time to let it go. He’s been in the league for about five straight years, and is still in the league. He is an asset where-ever he goes. A lot of it is being in the right place at the right time. Honestly, he should have been signed when he was here the first time. He was a spark then, and he is a spark now….nuff said.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:07 PM
I know dcbutler it is so crazy Juan is the same guard that on the biggest stages has his biggest games (30 pts in a playoff game) I know you want to find time for Javaris and James, my thing is at what cost? It is hard to justify match ups to me. Mikw James had 11 assists, I love that, that is a way he can lead, Juan has the same ability, not sure what we are doing with J Critt??
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:10 PM
dcbutler-I saw him in Portland and Toronto and Pistons so let me say Juan 1.0 was a scorer, Juan left the Wiz and discovered that to stick in the NBA he had to get better with his ball handling and on the ball D, he has matured and Juan 2.0 is a much better player. I know he and Roger Mason are different, however both came to the Wizards knowing that if given the minutes they could produce, just want the Coaching staff to allow it to take place with him, not to start but to be a big part of the 2nd unit
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:11 PM
Well, everyone can’t be on the court at the same time……the WIZ always say that someone isn’t ready, so I’ll live with that, but there are rookies getting MEANINGFUL minutes on other teams, so that they can be ready in the future, which seems to work a lot better to me. Rather see that they are NBA material now, than wait for an injury or whatever to occur (plus if the numbers aren’t right, could be good trade value)
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:12 PM
dcbutler-what is your take on Pesh?
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:16 PM
You know the more I see DMAC plays he really reminds me of Gerald Wallace, I remember all of the raw talent he had in Sac town got traded and really took off, they are both high energy guys, that rebound well for there position, high flyers and both had a suspect jumper (Wallace has improved that) I would love to see DMAC evolve into that player rather than a Rodman type
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:18 PM
As far as JD goes, he’s a survivor, so i’m not worried about him. He’ll be ok, what ever way the cards play out. There are several players that may have been better than JD, that didn’t last in the league for more than three years, so i’m sure that he’s counting his blessings and enjoying the ride while it lasts.
I don’t know the average years for an NBA player, but anything >3 yrs is a plus to me. It’s just best to always have a plan b in life.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:23 PM
DMAC will ensure that he raises his level. He already did that this summer. No one has come into the league with a total package, that takes work, AND a great system.
As far as Pech….I mentioned earlier about their “not ready” definitions. I’m sure there’s a lot more to “managing” a team than we see on a basketball court, so I REALLY don’t know what the heck is up with that one…..I remember when Keith Boothe came out of MD and went to chicago, he was on the championship team, but he was in street clothes all year, so in order to make/stay on a team, I guess ya gotta eat humble pie.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:26 PM
great point, well we got a win tonight should really help the teams confidence heading into Monday’s game
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:26 PM
Have you heard how many games Caron may be out?
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:30 PM
Nah, I didn’t even know he was hurt until the beginning of the game. I didn’t see him get hurt on that last play. I know he was running back up the court shaking his head about the call, but other than that, I wish him well.
Okay, it’s a saturday night, everyone take care and see ya soon. Maybe we should a bloggers night, whereas all the bloggers show up to the game with a laptop or some form of blogging from the game….LOL…Peace.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 27, 2008 at 10:36 PM
great win and enjoy the rest of your weekend
GO WIZ
Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time December 27, 2008 at 11:37 PM
Hey All, finally a Wiz win. Long time coming.
GREAT games for Blatche, AJ, and McGuire. Thought that Juan contributed at key points. Since I’m very critical of Etan, I’ve got to give him credit for playing great in the minutes he got. He hustled, boxed out, and rebounded…can’t ask for any more from him.
DeShawn played within himself and contributed…but not enough for the minutes he got. It is obvious that DeShawn is a favorite among teammates and the coaching staff, and that’s okay. It always helps to have a well-liked teammate, but his minutes have to be limited until he is able to shoot at a decent percentage. He’s getting more minutes off the bench than he got as a starter.
I am still certain that Slick Nick can be a star in this league, but I think that that stardom might be a few seasons away. As someone else has pointed out, when NY has the ball the defense immediately double-teams him and the entire Wiz offense goes out-the-window. Nick needs to learn to get rid of the ball as soon as the double-team arrives…someone else is open. Once he learns that, the double-teams will be reduced and he can operate.
I thought that there was much better ball movement tonight. I know that much of it can be attributed to the fact that CB was not available. That is NOT a knock on CB (one of my favorite players), but it is a knock on coach Tap’s philosophy that the offense must run through the All-Star forwards. We are much better off when CB and AJ don’t feel the pressure of having to make everything happen and let the game come to them.
Darius stopped OK City runs with both his timely scoring and his dogged defense. He REALLY knows how to play the game. He is always in the right place at the right time.
I still would LOVE to see more of McGee and Blatche at the same time.
AJ is the heart and soul of this team. He is HoF caliber. I love to watch him play. No need to say more…BEST of the WIZ.
McGuire demonstrated the tenacity that every Wizard should display on defense. If everyone would play “D” like McGuire, we would be undefeated. Now it appears as though he is going to go to the basket on offense. He had two SPECTACULAR dunks tonight (head above the basket types). Once he establishes a NBA offensive mind-set he will be great. There were sparks of it tonight…hope to see more.
James is our best bet at point guard. He can score and/or penetrate and kick. He needs more time with his teammates in practice to understand where they will be and when they will be there. I like the way he can force the defense to play him straight-up as opposed to slagging-in to block the passing lanes like they did with AD.
Can’t say enough about Andray. He played a great all-around game…scored, rebounded, passed, defended…what more can anyone ask!!! He didn’t get his most points, or rebounds, or blocks, but he did get his best game as a Wizard…Way to go ‘Dray.
Comment from jdmek9tec
Time December 28, 2008 at 12:02 AM
yeah totally agree with everything getabigboyoffense had to say.
Nick’s problem is that he seems to thinks too much out there. He just needs to play his game the way he did At USC, and yeah probably will take a couple years and hes almost like the really young kobe, the 98-99 99-00 kobe. sick.
More and more Dray seems to be getting it. this is awesome and hes on the brink of really turning into an all star caliber player.
Dom is playing awesome. He really seems to be turning into the “2nd round” steal of the 07 draft that everything thought he would.
The future does really look great with out young stars really learning and developing.
Comment from Bridge
Time December 28, 2008 at 6:58 AM
Man! The Bucks lost; at least it wasn’t a blow out like it looked like it’ll be, but the game was still fun overall. I think that Damon Jones (yes, the old Cavalier) being on our bench really gave us some bad luck!!
But I just got done watching the game because I DID record it – I just can’t see myself not watching a Wiz game…Wow, Caronimo was out with a sprained ankle?…I REALLY hope that we could get some updates on him soon. The game though was great; lots of team ball! How bout Dray and Dominic!! Wow, and everyone played (except Critt and Pech…was he even on the bench?). Dominic’s interview at the end of the game was so funny because you could just tell how nervous he was . Great energy though throughout the whole game amongst both teams, and it’s just nice to get a win!…On to Houston now. Alright, let me go get some snooze now, finally!…
GO WIZ!!!!!!!!!!
Comment from neal
Time December 28, 2008 at 7:37 AM
I also agree with your points, getabigboyoffense. Slick Nick is slowly learning. He seems to me to be moving the ball more than when he first came. He’s just learning that he’s now playing in a league where EVERYONE has a lot of talent. He’s got to blend in with a team. Blatche finally is looking like an NBA player. Hopefully, Young will come along too.
I’m really loving McGuire’s play. He fits in so well on this team. Other guys can shoot the jump shots.
I like Dixon, but I still think he’s a marginal player. He’s a streaky shooter; overall not a high percentage shooter. He’s become solid at the other aspects, but he’s just not big enough or a good enough ball handler to take a lot of minutes away from most 2 guards. He won’t be here next year.
Successive coaches have Pecherov 4th on the depth chart at PF. When he’s gone in he looks to shoot from the perimeter. That’s enough for me. I think we have better options. I like him and I understand he has a great sense of humor in the locker room. That’s the best role for him.
I hope Thomas will be in the regular rotation the rest of the year. I think he deserves it. McGee’s time will come.
Comment from wtop
Time December 28, 2008 at 8:59 AM
Great win Wizards verses the Thunder any body know if Caron will be with us for the Houston game because we need him to get a 2 game winning streak
Comment from LilGil
Time December 28, 2008 at 10:36 AM
Jeffmalone/dcbutler just wanna bring my lil input in there, though I think the exact same thing as you… JD really showed he knows his game yesterday and he did shoot 55% and he even had a 3 pointer… Still at a certain point of the game I seen him getting into it with the coach (yes seriously) and Jamison came around and took him a lil further from the bench so that he couldnt yell at coach tapscot… So let’s hope they don’t have a personal arguing going on. Concerning Pech he wasn’t there last night (neither were Caron and Gilbert but Brendan was there!) but he was in Cleveland. What I’m wondering is why he didn’t get minutes at all yesterday. He practices before all games, shoots and everything and still we don’t see him…..
Now one last point, I was wondering why we were seeing Mcgee way less. Well honsetly I believe he’s less productive now than he was at the beggining of the season, so that’s when you understand why in “important” games (which are the games in which we don’t easily lead which right now is about every game…) we don’t see him much anymore. He played only three minutes yesterday, I thought he could’ve played a lil more…
Anyway I hope we can bring the kind of energy we had on thursday in Houston monday, I hear Caron “should” (take that with precaution) be back so let’s hope everybody shows up healthy and we get a nice W to finally launch our season
(quick question, I haven’t seen Gilbert in a couple of days and I don’t believe I seen him on any of the photos of his charity event at the espn zone yesterday…. anybody seend him lately??)
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 28, 2008 at 1:02 PM
Lil Gil,
even though we are typing and can read your blog again….can you repeat the part about him getting into it with the coach?
I know JD told Gary Williams to shut up before, but that was more about intensity than dis-respect. But with today’s media and perceptions, I guess it’s about tact also. Thanks for the info. I just wish everyone the best and hope they can get over this, cuz we need JD, and the sooner the staff realizes and keep him in the rotation, the more Ws will come along. Cuz at this point, I say sit DSteve for about 5 games and see if he comes back like Etan did.
Comment from neal
Time December 28, 2008 at 2:21 PM
I agree about Stevenson. He needs to sit out a few games and try to come back slowly. Actually, I hope we see Butler and Young at the 2 for a while.
Pecherov may belong in the league, but he doesn’t belong with the Wiz. He’s behind Jamison, Blatche and Songaila. You going to take minutes from one of them so Pecherov can develop? No way.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time December 28, 2008 at 3:05 PM
I just read the injury report on yahoo sports and it said caron had swelling in the ankle and Pech had the flu.
Any word on Brendan’s progress?
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 5:46 PM
Great game from Andray Blatche. He seemed especially effective when ET or Darius was in there, allowing him to move around. He really is *not* a center. He won the game last night for us.
Dominic played well — but despite his personal scoring record, he has actually played better in any number of games. Still, he has clearly shown that he is a genuine, and even very good NBA player.
It was great to see Etan in there busting his butt. When we have a true center in the game, we are *much more flexible* in the rest of our lineup. McGee played very well in his few minutes last night. He needs to play too.
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 5:49 PM
I don’t know what to say about Nick Young. He played with good energy last night, and he did put at least *some* numbers on the right side of the box score — a few rebounds, a steal and an assist. But, it has become obvious that he didn’t really work on his game over the Summer. That can only mean that he thinks he doesn’t *need to* work on his game. He better grow up quick.
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 5:55 PM
M2 — you ask me about James; do I still think the trade was a bad trade. Yes, I do. That doesn’t mean I think — or ever thought — that Mike James is a “bad” player.
First of all about Mike. We have one win with him on our team — against the Thunder last night — and despite 11 assists he didn’t contribute to that win in a big way. He went 4-14, had 2 turnovers vs. 1 steal. I’m *not* criticizing him, understand. He is a streaky player, he can be great at times, he can be bad other times.
But, the fact is — he hasn’t brought us any wins, has he? So, how great a plus over Daniels can he be?
But, that’s not the main reason I don’t like the trade — the reason is that I thought we needed *more* roster flexibility, and the trade instead added one more guaranteed contract for next year.
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 6:01 PM
Someone above said that Nick is like the young Kobe — please, give me a break. Kobe *always* understood the game of basketball. His father was an NBA player. Nick doesn’t have much of a clue. And the suggestion that he play like he did at USC makes no sense either. For one thing, he isn’t playing against college players any more. For another, he really wasn’t *that* productive in college.
Nick needs to *go to school* — he needs to learn the NBA game; he needs to study, and improve. The idea that he should just play “instinctive” basketball would be fine if this were the playgrounds, where *everybody* is just playing on instinct.
Ask yourself why Dominic found it possible to improve as a player. And why Nick hasn’t found it possible. Dominic understands the game, he understands the offense, he *gets it.* Nick doesn’t have a clue.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 28, 2008 at 7:30 PM
dcbutler\lilgi
Thanks for the update on Dixon, I hope that it is not anything personal between Tap and Dixon, however it may explain his string of DNP’s. I really think he would have had another if Caron were healthy, he is only getting time due to injury, so I hust want Tap to play the best we have on the roster no matter of status or age. That being said I hope he plays against Houston and that McGee can got some minutes, with McGee it really looks like his confidence is shot, the kid needs to play. Nick Young when he plays with a swagger he plays better offense and defense, Tap said a week or so ago that he would allow him to work through his mistakes not sure if that is the case still, his confidence also seems shaken. I am very happy for DMAC and Blatche and cannot wait to see them further develop over the season.
Comment from neal
Time December 28, 2008 at 7:36 PM
Tom, we weren’t winning with Daniels either. We needed more offense from the guard positions. I think it has enabled us to use McGuire as a starter, since we now have another offensive threat on the floor. Supposedly, James is a better defender also, although I haven’t focused on him on the defensive end, so I don’t have an opinion on that. I loved seeing that he had 11 assists.
I agree that Nick still hasn’t learned how to be an NBA player. If he does, he can be very good. If he doesn’t it will be a huge waste of talent. I think I’d still rather see him play than Stevenson or Dixon. He has more potential. But he needs to play. It seems to me that he just shuffles around on D. He ought to notice how Songaila sprints around the court on D.
Whether the loss of roster flexibility was worth it depends on whether Crittenton becomes a player. It’s understandable that EG thought he had more possibilities than next year’s second round pick. But is his potential a better deal than some minimum salary FA that we could have gotten who might help us immediately?
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 8:37 PM
neal — I don’t disagree. Losing Daniels wasn’t a big problem for the Wizards in their current state — and he certainly is better off w/ the Hornets. It’s a good thing for him.
And I like Mike; he is a good athlete, he’s strong, and yes he gives us some offense from the guard spot. All I mean is, you know, Mike James is as good as Mike James is. He isn’t a star, he isn’t a consistent kind of player, he hasn’t made any team into a contender.
And, sure, if Crittenton turns into an excellent NBA point guard, it will have been a good trade. As I said in another thread, if it works out more power to Ernie. If not, he takes the responsibility. Personally, I’d like to have more roster flexibility — but who knows he may have a plan to get it.
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 8:40 PM
I think Juan isn’t playing because he basically has the same qualities as James, except he isn’t as good and he is very small. I’d also love to see Nick get 20 minutes a game — esp. if he is earning his minutes in practice — we do need to see whether he can improve.
But remember — I’ve a) given up on the playoffs this year, and b) am thinking about us having one of the top few picks in the draft. So, I’m not that concerned w/ wins and losses any more.
Comment from neal
Time December 28, 2008 at 8:58 PM
I agree with all that.
So let’s say we get a lottery pick and they ask you to name the position to pick for. What’s your answer?
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time December 28, 2008 at 9:05 PM
PG
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 28, 2008 at 9:26 PM
Well, we’re certain to get a lottery pick — no doubt about that. I’m hoping for one of the top 3 picks.
I don’t pick by position; I pick the guy who I think can be a superstar. Right now, Blake Griffin looks awfully good. Phenomenal, in fact. But, it looks like we’d have to have the #1 pick to get him.
Comment from lenman
Time December 29, 2008 at 12:49 AM
I would hate to be a lottery pick and come to this organization with it’s outdated philospophy about veterans. While Grunfeld has done a good job of finding talent (partcularly JaVale McGee, Blatche, Nick Young and Dominic McGuire), his move bringing in Tapscott and not giving him a mandate to play his youngsters is ridiculous.
You guys wonder what happened to JaVale and Nick, the short answer is Tapscott. Those kids numbers and confidence have dopped like a rock since Tapscott has attempted to coach thisteam. If anyone read his disjointed comments in the Post about “what you do with veterans if you give the rookies playing time” gets a good sense as to why this team suffers from perennial mediocrity. When your time is winning less than 18 % of its games, you sit your old tired jump shooting veterans on the bench. Only on the Wizards squad can a nomad 33 year old “combo” guard (that a championship caliber New Orleans team did not want) get major minutes.
What Grunfeld and Tapscott and the organization is telling its fans is that if we give you a 40 win team, the fans can live with that. They can feed you nonsense about the “Two All-Stars” which is about as believable as Santa Claus coming down the chimney. Name one other team with two All-Stars that has 5 wins. No plan for the future, no bold moves other than signing an injured guard and a 32 year old “in-between” forward to
outrageous contracts
Come on who cares about a win against Oklahoma City if we don’t develop our young guys. Who cares about Mike James, who will be somewhere else next year. Who cares about DeShawn Stephenson who should have been benched 10 games ago. Who cares about 20 and 10 if your teqm does not win, hell Kevin Durant is aveaging 20 and almost 10.
Every other organization has figured it out. You live with the growing pains of playing your young guys and if they are NBA caliber players they will rise to the occasion. But give them a fair chance to be successful. If everyone recalls, Brendon Haywood was viewed unfavorably by almost everyone until he got a chance to play last year.
The major reason I kept going down to Verizon was because I enjoyed seeing the athleticism of JaVale and If Tapscott comes back, Grunfeld can sell my two season tickets to someone else.
Comment from neal
Time December 29, 2008 at 7:50 AM
Lenman, I would also like to see more of Young, but I think a mixture of old and new is best. Blatche and Young and McGuire played well the other night but we couldn’t have won w/o James and Jamison tying things together. Five new kids doesn’t work any better than five old tired guys, and you don’t want to get your newbies used to losing while they’re learning the game.
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time December 29, 2008 at 8:04 AM
Lenman — obviously Blatche and McGuire are now getting major minutes, so the only ones you can be itching to see are McGee, Young and Crittenton.
Me too, but only for 20 minutes a game. In any case, that’s all it’ll take for JaVale to foul out of many games. But I am very eager to see whether Crittenton can play.
I couldn’t agree more about Mike James. If he is a factor on our team, that tells you more about the team than it does about Mike (which doesn’t make him a bad player, btw).
Comment from CB3
Time December 29, 2008 at 10:58 PM
Merry Christmas!!!!
Comment from CB3
Time December 29, 2008 at 10:58 PM
Lets go 2 in a row
Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 2, 2009 at 9:28 PM
If that idiot Tapscott come back I will never go to another game. No Young, McGee. What is this man thinkng about. It’s not like the Wiz are going to when now. Fire Ed now. I can’t believe how pourous the defense is. Oh that’s right we have to play butler and jamison together. They get 20 give 20. These guys play the same position.
Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 2, 2009 at 9:30 PM
Yeah, McGee and Young are in finally. Oh Pech does play for this team.
Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 2, 2009 at 9:37 PM
I agree with everything lenman is saying. If this franchise is going to grow it’s going to be with the young guys this year. They are hungry and play better D. They are down by 20 and Etan is in hte game. What is that going to do for this team. Fire Ed now.
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Comment from Jgarcia104
Time December 27, 2008 at 12:31 PM
lets get a win tonight team. we need to be aggressive and mantain a good level of focus through out the game. the cleavland game was probably the best start to a game we have played all year… the 3rd qt we got off to a slow start but finished well. at 4-22we shouldnt be looking over any team… so lets just hope we dont think we can mail this one in at home..