Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:44 AM

Good Morning all:

Dave every time I see this “but yes the team has to play smart on offense to avoid droughts like the second quarter and fourth quarter scoring is still issue–17 of 33 games this season 20 points or less in the 4th….”

That 4th qtr stat to me is one of the most telling stats of the season. We are not closing out games in the 4 th quarter. So again 17 games is a trend, heck it is a HABIT, so what needs to change to jump start the 4th? I will always go to rotations and starters minutes, I know that when we look at the box scores we see Twan and Caron to play 40 min a games and James at about 35, however I do not think it tells the entire story. It is when the bench gets minutes, like 0 sub’s in the 1st qtr, like always feeling the need to have Caron or Twan on the floor. And not playing with Blatche as a focal part of the offense, or Dixon getting DNP’s and McGee DNP’s. I look at situational rotations and minutes and I think that is thr real problem, why is it that the starters need to play 40 min for the Wiz to win? From what I gather it has produced 17 times this year scoring 20 pts or less in the 4th qtr, with tired legs and notihing on offense or defense.

So maybe we can have a great effort against Toronto, and Juan maybe can play against his old team (maybe). Here’s to a win, and starting a nice winning streak.

McGee needs to play at the 5, and Darius and ET needs to back him up and at the, and try and play with Blatche and McGee and DMAC on the floor together with Caron and Young (or Dixon) we need some energy on the defense.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:47 AM

JeffM,

Now you can choose another topic when you call in tonight

GO WIZ!!!

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:51 AM

dcbutler-as you know I will do my best to call in and I actually talked about this some on the post game last night,lol.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:57 AM

lol…and the night before….lol

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:06 AM

I guess I have to look at the definition of insanity… lol

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:19 AM

LOL….Well, we have plenty of examples, right about now, but I’m going to focus on getting this win tonight..lol….

Comment from aznzero
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:29 AM

tough lost last night. if only we couldve made some shots in the second quarter.

man im mad my xbox broke!!! the 3 red lights! now i cant play my nba 2k9 before each wizards game.

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:32 AM

Sorry, but this is more on a ‘sour’ note;

If the organization has it in their plans to “throw” the season, at least they can do it with some damn dignity – - what a joke. Winning isn’t everything, but it sure doesn’t seem important…To them, LEGACY seems important; since someone’s daddy was GM – lets make his son coach….since a player was once here, lets bring that player back….ummmm, that’s not CHANGE, that’s living in the past. If I could disagree with Caron about one thing, it’ll be his comparison of “Tap” to Obama. Not trying to ‘down’ their coach, but he looks as if he could talk you right to sleep. Big words and Aristotle quotes mean nothing; even I can confuse the hell out of people with that stuff. Then this ‘lets get the media to provoke fans to have this certain hate for Blatche’ is just getting old, ridiculous, and tacky. There’s better ways of doing things; just don’t start him – why attach “team issues” (or whatever it was that they attached to his reason for not starting). Nothing else better to do huh….

(Some of) the players just don’t deserve this – - maybe I’m just too much of a “players’ person.” Well, a good thing out of all of this is that Caron made #10 on ESPN and #1 on NBATV (for top plays), so congrats to Caronimo!

Other than that, still thinking if I could stomach watching another Wiz game…Maybe I’ll just watch the home team play tonight……

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:32 AM

sorry aznzero,

I’m only familiar with the Wii game.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:35 AM

Bridge-love your post and hopefully you will be on the blog tonight

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:36 AM

Oooookay,

Hello Bridge??

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:44 AM

l’m only used to seeing that kind of heat, on the blog, after the game…..Move over getabig, there’s a new sherrif in town.

Comment from Rick
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:05 PM

Look, guys, Orlando is an elite team. And we were in it with them in the 4th qtr. But there’s no way we beat an elite team when Antawn goes 5 for 17. Without Caron’s incredible second half, we would have gotten blown out.

But still, I have seen a lot of improvement with this team. AND the schedule is about to start getting a whole lot easier. I contend that the Wiz played one of the most difficult schedules so far this year league-wide, in terms of the number of .500+ teams they’ve played.

That said, (and as much as I love to see them win), rationally, I am hoping for a high lottery pick this year. Not the last playoff spot.

Comment from gbkdc
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:10 PM

Does anyone know why Andray was taken out of the Cleveland game late?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:20 PM

Rick,

I agree with you. But this is the NBA…No A game, No win, and there is an A in Coaching as well as in Players.

Toronto just beat Orlando, the bobcats just beat boston. We can beat anybody in this league, but we need to get focused, stay focused, and pack some more focus for lunch the next day (and that doesn’t just pertain to the players).

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:21 PM

Hello gbkdc,

I think JeffM posted it towards the end of yesterday’s blog. I will not be the one that copy and paste it

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:31 PM

gkbdc-just for you re: Dray

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:06 AM

In case anybody wondered why Blatche did not start, the Washington Post stated:

Andray Blatche was replaced by Darius Songaila in the starting lineup. Tapscott called the decision “a team matter,” but the decision was likely a response to the way Blatche reacted after being removed from the game in the late stages of Sunday’s win over Cleveland.

As he left the floor, Blatche appeared to yell something in direction of the coaching staff, and he had to be calmed down by teammates

Comment from gbkdc
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:50 PM

Yeah, but do you know why he was removed from the game in Cleveland? I mean, did he make a boneheaded play or something? Hand LeBron the ball, maybe? Just curious. Thanks to both of you, DCButler and JeffMalone!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 12:55 PM

If I recall correctly, i think it was done for more offense to be on the floor. Now you know we stopped trying to figure out the rotations about 20 games ago

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:17 PM

i think D.Song was the better choice to start last night but other than that i dont see him in the game till AB needs a rest i watched the game from DVR and i have to say there were bad rotations an i have no idea why you take Dom outa that game in the 2nd i have no idea why you put AJ on the bench when CB3 is hittin every shot theres alot of stuff going on there and i have no idea how you fix a coach…

tonight we need to get this win and thats the end of that!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:22 PM

It’s true that we lost to an elite team last night — but it wasn’t the elite players that beat us.

We got beat by the combination of Marcin Gortat and JJ Redick. In a combined 28 minutes, those guys turned 6 shots into 10 points, grabbed 10 rebounds, blocked 2 shots and only committed 1 foul.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:23 PM

Hey TomM,

That’s our stat guy!!

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:25 PM

The Raptors are not a good team. As I predicted in the off season, O’Neal has been a bust and they’re trying to trade him. I don’t think they’ll find any takers.

In other words, we might just get a win.

Comment from gbkdc
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:29 PM

Thanks, DCButler!

Comment from SportzWiz
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:33 PM

The Wizards are about to enter a stretch tonight that hopefully they can take advantage of.

Yesterday concluded the toughest five game stretch of the season. Four came on the road against the three top teams in the East and New Orleans and Houston. The team went 2-3 during that period.

They now play 8 straight against teams under .500. Tonight’s tough because of the back-to-back but hopefully they can take advantage.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 1:57 PM

I would love for this team to play up tempo, it seems like we struggle so much in the half court sets. I would coach the talent of the team not the philophosy of the coach. We have to get out on the break and push the ball. Having a shot blocker (McGee) Blatche or Thomas, will help if we can press full court, or strong man to man, we need that shot blocker to cover up for mistakes. So let Blatche, McGee and DMAC play together with 2 other scoring options that can press the ball, just an idea?

Comment from dabeatkeeper
Time January 7, 2009 at 2:10 PM

Why does our coach not play J. McGee???? He has been one of the only bright spots this year! Ok, he is a rookie. We finally have a nice young big man but typical Wizards fashion he sits on the bench! We need a real coach really bad before we will ever start winning games!

Comment from Rick
Time January 7, 2009 at 2:24 PM

I think uptempo is a good idea. other than antawn (and even he would get more open looks at the 3) i think most of our roster would prefer a faster paced offense.

Comment from aznzero
Time January 7, 2009 at 2:31 PM

i agree uptempo is good for this team especially with the personel we have. i remember tapscott saying hes going to preach about pushing the ball. they did that on his first game as a coach and we blew the other team out.

Comment from TAG FLIP
Time January 7, 2009 at 2:45 PM

tonight’s a game that i feel we have a good shot at getting… toronto’s been struggling this season like we have, although they have more wins to show for it. still, they’re missing 2 big players, o’neal and calderon but that still means we gotta lock down chris bosh. i should be on the blog tonight, hopefully, since i’ve been absent from it the past 2 games.

Comment from Rick
Time January 7, 2009 at 3:48 PM

I found this interesting… thought some of you might as well. Seems like Polin is doing relatively well compared to some of the other teams in the league. We are in the middle of the pack value-wise.

http://www.forbes.com/lists/2008/32/nba08_NBA-Team-Valuations_MetroArea.html

Comment from adnanajanah
Time January 7, 2009 at 3:55 PM

lets use blatche more.

Comment from WizFan301
Time January 7, 2009 at 4:54 PM

LETS JUST FORGET LAST NITE AND LOOK FOWARD TO TONITE GO WIZ GET THAT WIN!!!!

Comment from Da_Big_Taba
Time January 7, 2009 at 6:01 PM

i miss stevenson

Comment from SportzWiz
Time January 7, 2009 at 6:34 PM

D steve out 10-14 days. He went through a “procedure” today and the team will re-evaluate him in a week or so.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 7, 2009 at 6:41 PM

He’s really seemed to be playing through some kind of physical problems this whole season. Wish him very well and to be back on the court soon.

Comment from SportzWiz
Time January 7, 2009 at 6:43 PM

DSteve is a warrior, the fact that he didn’t miss a game last year was unbelieveable and the pain he played in this year again its unreal. The guy just does anything and everything he can for his team.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 6:51 PM

:40 Dave Johnson checking in from Verizon Center…Jose Calderon will not play with a strained right hamstring….Jermaine O’Neal is out with a knee contusion… and Jamrio Moon is not here because his wife gave birth to a daughter….so the Raptors will go with Will Solomon Anthony Parker, Andrea Bargnani, Joey Graham, Chris Bosh….Wizards will go with Mike James, Caron Butler, Andray Blatche, Domenic McGuire, and Antawn Jamison

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 6:55 PM

and thanks for all the comments today… and I am sorry if at times I seem like a broken record but we lose games at times for the same reason….and yes Darius did a good job last night..shame he had to leave the game for a awhile….we still don’t find him as often as we should… he makes terrific cuts to the basket

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:00 PM

Dave and Glenn, here’s to a win and thanks again for the blogcast

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:02 PM

on the playing up tempo issue, I think this team has the green light to push it, I know the Wiz practices uptempo, but you have to get it off the glass, and great fast break teams pass it up court vs dribble it up, really up to the players

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:06 PM

Yeah, you guys are greatly appreciated – seriously ! Passion just gets the best of folks sometimes…I just REALLY want this team to be ok – this season as well as future ones.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:07 PM

right back at everybody.. for the kind words… just getting together and sharing thoughts on the game we love

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:10 PM

glenn and i were just talking about how tired we are…did not land until 1 am or something like that….not making excuses but this is not a great draw….we played on the road last night… the raptors were off…in fact we saw their air canada plane just sitting on the tarmac..so let’s hope we have the energy

Comment from ChenierFan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:12 PM

Some Random Thoughts…

1) The fact that DeShawn has been playing with a slipped disc in his back explains why his play has been so poor this year and that, for all intents and purposes, the Wiz have been playing this year without 3 of last year’s starters, not just two.

2) I’d rather have the problem with Andray that he get’s angry for coming out of the game instead of with Marbury who doesn’t want to to into the game. If this was the first time he reacted that way then they should have warned him after the game not to do that instead of publically humiliating him. That was an overreaction on Tap’s part and does nothing to motivate anyone – psych 101.

3) Sometime Darius takes shots that are just outside his range when he doesn’t need to. He is a deadeye shooter from 18 and in.

4) One of the bloggers (Getabig, maybe) wondered why there is no constant pressure on the guy bringing the ball up the court. I think doing so would bring an extra 2 steals a game. I also wonder why teams don’t play tight on ALL side out situations. Why not make teams work for everything at all times?

5) Even though the Raptors are seriously depleted tonight, I doubt the Wiz are overconfident. I’m not. But I look for a “W” tonight!

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:13 PM

chenierfan.. good points… and with the way things were going for deshane had to wonder if something was bothering him

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:22 PM

The wizards are my fav team since 2002
I think the should take less 3pointers!!!

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:23 PM

jumpers galore-we need to pound the ball

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:23 PM

i know we say this but need to attack the basket

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:26 PM

we need to play better d

Comment from CRUNCHTIME RADIO
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:29 PM

were’s the fans thees a lot of emty seats

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:29 PM

6 pts, wow what are we doing on offense

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:30 PM

Tapscott said lat night was a previewof what is going to happen tonight. Well the defense sure looks the same and our offense still look disjointed. Tapscott is an idiot. Please go away

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:32 PM

i want eddie jordan back

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:35 PM

what do we have to do to get 20 pts in a qtr? At some point the players have to stop launching J’s and ATTACK

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:38 PM

71% shooting. another stellar defensive effort.

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:38 PM

do you think gilbert will come back?

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:39 PM

amen jeff malone 1990

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:41 PM

Who is going to be the one to make a change on defense?

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:46 PM

what are the odds for the wiz to score 30 before the half.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:47 PM

Raps 4-7 from 3 pt line, Wiz 1-5 from the 3pt line…Man 21 pts in the 2nd qtr with 8:14 to go, c’mon!!!!!!!

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:49 PM

mike james has to attack the basket….tomas has to help attacks the boards…were being out hustled

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:54 PM

rnbrown4 i know it is frustrating it iks not a good half… we have oplayed better as you know in recent game.s.. but as we have been talking about on the radio not doing the things that have helped us …like rebounding getting killed on the boards…..

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 7:58 PM

No Juan and McGee again? We have 25 pts in the 2nd qtr 25pts!!

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:00 PM

jame splayiung two guard

Comment from CRUNCHTIME RADIO
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:00 PM

why is j critt getting so much playing time, this coach sucks big time. why isn’t dixon getting time jamison an butler needs a nother scoring threat to get there offence going

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:02 PM

wizards a 9-0 run….. need to get this between 8-10 at half.. and re start

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:08 PM

end of half on 13-4 need to get a litte better..this was bad half

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:09 PM

and if we could avoid anything perosnal..calling someone an idiot…or saying they suck…etc…want to keep this blog on a high level

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:09 PM

16 pts in the 1st, and 22 pts in the 2nd, I have nothing else to add

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:10 PM

using criteenton as back up oint…but don;t disagree that dixon should get some time

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:10 PM

This coach is refuses to play mcgee and blatche together. dixon should be playing also. I’m sick of tapscott. No D or rebounding

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:13 PM

at least we went on a run at the end of the half

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:15 PM

Too many minutes for starters, with this being a back-back, regardless.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:17 PM

Need something fresh/new, this isn’t working. three-point shooters are just standing at the three like it’s practice.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:18 PM

Wizards shooting under 40% from the field, and 33% from 3, 38 pts at the Half!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:18 PM

I was referring to toronto

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:20 PM

Ok, why don’t we have Grunfield come and coach.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:22 PM

as we jjust talked about on radio…bad first half.,.. raptors are packing it in on defense… have to work it to the second side of the floor… make the defense work

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:23 PM

lets just see what they do next half
knowing the wizards a comeback will happen

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:23 PM

dcbutler-yes the starters and the rotations, I thought we would see a change on the back to back, but we have not thus far. No Dixon again, another DNP for McGee. We are not getting a thing from the bench, simply because they are not getting the time.

Our 2 PG’s at the half have a total of 1 assists, 6 pts, 1 steal

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:24 PM

We’re still in this, I hope we get it together….

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:24 PM

little worrying that raptors have 12 oiint lead bosh only 5

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:27 PM

Ok, we’re waking up

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:28 PM

jamison good job on bosh but just fouled bargnanni

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:30 PM

lets go wizards!!!!

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:30 PM

wizards poisiitve is defense on bosh

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:31 PM

wizards active on d have to do it at the opther end

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:31 PM

Hey guys, sorry I’m in late…How many points for Dixon?
THey have good pretzels here in toronto!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:31 PM

The threes hurt us in the first half.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:31 PM

5 tos in quarter for tor

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:32 PM

Somedody shoot the organist

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:32 PM

Our bigs have it together, for the most part (over the last few games)

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:33 PM

blatche too unselfish

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:34 PM

With the Raptors playing without a true center, how great would it be for the Wiz to go big w\ McGee and Blatche? And for the life of me with all of the offensive struggles no Dixon?

DMAC only 1 rebound, 1 assists, 2 pts

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:34 PM

Actually, our D has been pretty good, it’s the offense that’s gotta get it together

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:35 PM

47 pts with under 6 minutes to go, our offense?? We have yet to hit 25 pts in a qtr, wow

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:36 PM

Uggggghhhhh, we need some fresh players on the court, get some kind of energy going

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:36 PM

Its looking bad. get close but no cigar.

Comment from John50
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:36 PM

DMAC put is hand over one of the players eyes lol…That is defense go DMAC!!!!

Someone tell Mike to just transition or his You Tube will be up soon with him whinning from last game…

Go wiZ…

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:36 PM

CAn somebody Please tell me wassup with JD?

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:37 PM

the defense is hurting us badly

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:37 PM

Wiz are being out rebounded 28-17

Comment from jenda
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:37 PM

lets go Wiz’s. We need to start a bit of a W streak very soon or else playoffs are out of the question

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:39 PM

WAAAY to Go Jame-O! time for 7k

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:39 PM

The Wizards cannot continue to walk the ball up and play slow, we have to speed up the tempo, the half-court sets are non-exsistent

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:40 PM

Yeah and I’ve got tix for the Wiz in the playoffs

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:40 PM

LOL….they don’t have a choice if they keep takiing the ball out the nets..

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:40 PM

juan dixon need time
he can sread the floor

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:41 PM

playoffs . this team is fighting for the 1 pick so the coaching staff can not play another draft pick.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:43 PM

Dave and Glenn help me out the Wizards have scored 16 in the 1st qtr, 22 in the 2nd qtr and thus far 15 with a shade over 3:00 to go in the 3rd, how on earth do we not put in Dixon? Not to mention back to back games, with the starters again playing heavy minutes, no Dixon or McGee again?

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:44 PM

Jamison and CB3 the only 2 Wizards in double figures

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:45 PM

PUT DIXON IN WE NEED THREES

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:46 PM

if this coach had jordan as a rookie he wouldn’t play him.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:49 PM

22 pts in the 3rd, well at least we got 20! We have yet to hit 25 in a qtr. So here comes the money qtr, will we finally snap out of the 4th qtr SLUMP?

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:50 PM

WE NEED SOME DEFENSIVE MOVES

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:50 PM

we are playing in a home game…we need to set the tempo…..make turnovers,get rebs…stop taking 3pointers.get other player involed

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:50 PM

they are going to bring out the red, white and blue ball for us to shoot with. I feel 30pts for the qtr

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:50 PM

bargnanai parker solomon

19 of 25 43 points 76 %

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:52 PM

Dave and Glenn what in the world did McGee do not to get any playing time? All of these DNP’s

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:52 PM

the ball moves better with cb on the bench.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:53 PM

17 raptors tos

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:54 PM

thats one of those songailia cuts

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:54 PM

Nice article about Dominic.

Can’t get my dvr to record, so I’ve missed most of the game. Just gonna turn it on and get the (bad? good?) news.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:57 PM

only 5 pts down in spite of it all, amazing

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:57 PM

getting back…….

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:59 PM

wizards 15-7 in this quarter six for six from the field

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:59 PM

rnbrown4 you called it Wiz already have 15 in the 4th

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 8:59 PM

does jamison ever step infront of anyone to even try and play d.

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:00 PM

Yay!! Nice spin move/assist by Critt!!!

Here we come

GO WIZARDS!!!!!!!!!

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:01 PM

Damn AB! Gotta watch Bosh – - he’s KNOWN for doing that…

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:02 PM

the money ball is dropping

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:02 PM

attacking basket

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:03 PM

JCritt making a difference…

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:04 PM

wizards 8 for 8 this quarter,,,,,,and yeah bride you are right bosh caught blatche..butler does that to defenders soimetimes

Comment from GliArenas0Fan
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:04 PM

we are playing better

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:07 PM

I hope they don’t try fouling Twan out…

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:09 PM

need some d

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:09 PM

I call the Raptors “The Mob;” most of their names sound “mob(ish)” to me lol…

YES!!!!! AND 1!!!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:10 PM

Wow, where did JCritt get this confidence all of a sudden….but i’ll take it

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:10 PM

COME ON – - WE CAN GET THIS!!!

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:11 PM

we need to go to the basket and stop taking 3s.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:12 PM

Who else will step up for the Wizards for scoring?

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:12 PM

Nick gets so upset with himself…

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:13 PM

We’ll see Jeff…

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:14 PM

mcgee must have told tapscott my mom can beat your mom 1 on 1 and that’s why he’s not playing.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:14 PM

Wiz being out rebounded 38-27

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:14 PM

went back to MJ?

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:16 PM

We really do struggle in the half court, at least we got 25 in the 4th thus far

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:16 PM

Don’t know about this guys . Even if we lose, this was a better effort I guess.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:17 PM

dcbutler you act suprised that he went back to MJ,lol

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:17 PM

Yeah, that’s what I was thinking dcbutler. I think he should’ve kept Nick in there…

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:18 PM

toronto missing alot of players also. when was the last time we scored 90

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:18 PM

Is Dixon in trouble with the coach????

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:18 PM

Raptors have 5 players in double figures, Wiz have 3

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:20 PM

young back in for offense

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:20 PM

we are so close to 90. come wiz.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:21 PM

Raptors 8-16 from 3pt land, Wiz 5-17

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:22 PM

What’s up with the constant roster changes?? Might as well close this thing out!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:22 PM

Inability to change really hurts this team.

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:22 PM

Sorry folks..intant replay of yesterday’s performance
Gave it away at the 2 min mark.. missed 3 by jamison and bad drive from Young…Gotta learn how to finish….Gil where are you?

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:24 PM

post game speach. we played hard. we had a run they had a run. we got tired at the end.

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:24 PM

Tawn played a great game 2nite! Congrats on his records that he made tonight .

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:24 PM

LOL…

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:25 PM

wizards 10 of 18 from the line really hurt

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:25 PM

DMAC 1 reb , Blatche 1 rebound thus far

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:25 PM

I can’t bear anymore postgames…..same story different day.

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:26 PM

did we just get beat by d league and euro reject players.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:26 PM

31 points in foyrth quarter bit not enough

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:26 PM

LOL….and their MVP was Tap…LOL

Comment from t-bOnus
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:26 PM

defeated……..sad

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:27 PM

3 pt shooting the differance 24 pts Wiz 15 pts Net-9 for the Raps

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:27 PM

we scored more than 90 hooray!!!!!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:27 PM

Can we get some sort of handicap to start the games…say 15-20 points?

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:28 PM

301-230-0980

poist game show

thanks again

Comment from Bridge
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:28 PM

“did we just get beat by d league and euro reject players.” – - rnbrown

That’s pretty mean lol. Letting T J Ford go, IMO, really hurt them…

Well; goodnight folks…

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:29 PM

Tapscott is the secret weapon for the other team. can we trade him for a blind coach.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:30 PM

We have no half court offense, man I agree McGee and Dixon would not make a differance on offense and defense (sarcasim)

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:30 PM

ROFLMAO….Heck, we’ll trade him for nothing at all, we’ll even add cash, just get him away from here

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:33 PM

We hit our season avg in scoring we go for 93 and give up 100

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:34 PM

tapscott said wiz will practice tomorrow if they lose. for what. he’s been practicing being a coach. this guy is such a loser.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:36 PM

nobody on the Raptors attempted more than 16 shots, Jamison 23 attempts, and Caron 18 attempts (Raptors 5 players in dbl figures)

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:37 PM

on hold for the post game

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:37 PM

oh well the good thing about the nba there is always another game.

Comment from M2
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:38 PM

JM1990
Remember Tap does “7 game rotations” or whatever… & it seems like the last few games Crit & Etan are taking their turns? Or maybe not, who even knows anymore? But Juan & McGee will get beck in action soon.

& on the Crit note, his scoring isn’t there yet (it will be) but he got more than 25 mins tonight with NO turnovers, SIX assists & THREE steals… Only took a few shots… Needs to take more… He will get better & better.
He’s been with the team for a very short period of time.
I can’t wait to see half the people here eat crow.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:42 PM

I turned the game on w/ less than 8 minutes left. The next 4-5 minutes, Crittenton was all-world; I mean he played great. We got the score close.

Then… Tapscott took him out.

As far as eating crow goes, M2, I’d be happy to see him turn out great. But, you don’t know he will and neither do I. If you had a crystal ball, I’m sure you’d find something better to do with it than pick the good point guards!

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:45 PM

Tapscott doesn’t look at what’s going on in the game. He is such a genius and has his plan.

Comment from gbkdc
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:47 PM

Yikes.

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:51 PM

Ed is pissed. he’s really going to make them practice now. what a joke. this man needs to learn his players capabilities and when he should sub and rotate players.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 7, 2009 at 9:53 PM

We got a total of 18 defensive rebounds in this game. At the same time, we had a better net possession figure because of fewer turnovers and more steals.

We got down early, and we missed our free throws. Too bad.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:01 PM

Glenn thanks again for taking my call, not sure what else can be said

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:03 PM

One thing that did seem positive. JCritt took over in the last 5 minutes and made things happen. I still say if tap has implemented a plan, and our “all-stars” don’t run it, sit their happy as-es down just like he would anyone else. I bet the plays would be ran after that….

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:05 PM

I don’t think the players even take him serious.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:06 PM

dcbutler-again not sure what else can be said, Toronto had O’Neal and Calderon out and we lose the game, speechless

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:07 PM

Glenn and Dave wondered why Dixon did not play in the game? And as far as McGee with another DNP we need Congress to investigate this!

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:13 PM

Javaris looked good out there tonight. He has some good passing skills we havn’t seen before. It looks like he is starting to feel a little more comfortable. Antawn and coach Hopla had better park themselves at the free throw line.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:16 PM

The way we play ANYONE can beat us. We sit there and worry about everyone’s all-star and the ROLE players do their jobs hitting threes. The same players that put us in the hole, have to dig us out of the hsole. If we keep starting slow, put in a whole new five at the 8 or 9 minute mark. This is not rocket science. Same ole shizznick each game is ludicrous.
I listened to Ed’s post-game and he’s saying the same thing he said when he first took over. If his main guys aint getting it done, Heck lose by 30, but put in players that will run what you want ran.
I caught you on the call-in and Toronto hit it on the nail, Bosh had six assists because we tried to take him out of the game. He has other NBA players on his team that can shoot. We just dont have a team, we have two all stars and some other players that have to give it to the all-stars. If we have all-stars, why don’t they set the example for the other to follow, and I don’t mean shoot because you used to be an all-star. In my eyes they are not all-stars, okay, they may be all-stars, but not leaders, because they aren’t making out other players better.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:17 PM

I think M2 is right. Tap said he uses those 7 game stints. I’m just guessing they aren’t in one of the Juan/JaVale stints? I know it sounds silly but that is what Tap said he does?

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:17 PM

The only plan that Tap has is for what he is going to be doing after the “interim” coaching gig is over…and the sooner he gets to implement that plan, the better for the team and the fans.

How in the name of James Naismith can you put five professional NBA basketball players on the court against five other NBA professional basketball players and expect them to compete, never mind succeed, when you don’t have an offensive strategy that is beyond low-level college basketball?

AGAIN…1 pass and a screen or cut and then let’s see what you can do one-on-one. That’s not an offense. That’s an attempt to be a lottery team. It’s the LOTTERY OFFENSE.

We have good players. Can we PLEASE get them a coach who has some idea about installing a Big Boy Offense. We have some great-passing low post players, but we seem to get them the ball 25 feet from the basket.

Hello Tap. How about if YOU practice clapping, scowling and asking the assistant coaches what to do tomorrow and let the team go somewhere else to decide on the offense to use for the next game.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:19 PM

DCB especially when the plan was to come out driving to the hoop and Antawn takes and misses , I think, his first 4 or 5 OUTSIDE shots. Lead by example?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:22 PM

NO ACCOUNTABILITY, by the players, by the coaches. We will be typing the same thing after each game until this season is over, at this rate. Grunfield just needs to come down and take the heat (coach) since he put this BS together…putting his boy in to coach since he had a winning record at AU??????????
What is AU division, 1AAAAAA?

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:22 PM

GetaBB the one pass, cut, dribble dribble, shoot is not only losing us games it is getting awfully boring to watch.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:25 PM

I wonder who, if anybody, is on their short list for coach?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:25 PM

lol…plus, they only run that play every fourth time down the court. They can’t even run a fast break properly. This team is shot. And up-tempo??? LOL….jcritt seems to have gotten the message, we’ll see friday. We have no direction whatsoever, except to look at the schedule and go play the next game.

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:26 PM

The players are playing as hard as they can. It is hard to succeed against any NBA defense when you are not provided any offensive weapons except your own personal skill set. It is rare that you will defeat a decent NBA defense with a college offense. When you do it is a tribute to the players. I don’t understand why the players don’t just stuff the entire coaching staff into the lockers and play without them.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:27 PM

As an overall team we are tall and we are quick. We need someone who can use that to the best advantage

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:30 PM

Whomever they get will have all kinds of clauses in their contract. Cuz the way they did EJordan wasn’t right you knew this man was an injury away from a cellar record. Yes he did refuse to play the young guns, but a meeting could have taken care of that. ABE needs to just sit upstairs and count his money, cuz he ain’t help’n the cause.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:30 PM

that 7 game crap is simply not effective and frankly not working, you have DeShawn, Gil and Haywood out. You have Dixon and McGee on the bench, there are minutes there. JCRITT started slow but came on late in the game, he has to develop a jump shot to be more of a threat, teams will just sag off and play him to penetrate. McGee, I guess we do not want to play an athletic big that can block shots? We avg 93 pts a game and give up 100, yet we are a slow tempo half court jump shooting team, wow?

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:31 PM

We’ve got enough strong, young players to mug that coaching staff, stuff them in lockers and play a game without them.

I’m willing to lead the insurrection…anything to get rid of this staff.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:33 PM

I don’t know where that 7 game mentality came from. Each team you play is different. Plus, well no use in wasting paper, it doesn’t matter any more. Just get this nightmare over with….dang, about 50 games left of this BS. I’m about to go get me another hobby….LOL….

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:34 PM

Sorry, about that last post. Sometimes I get a little bit too emotional. Go Wiz!!!

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:34 PM

I am for D’Antoni ball for the rest of the year, run n gun baby, at least for the fans! This Piston and Knock ball of the early 90′s (on offense, NOT DEFENSE) is not working.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:35 PM

Jeff have you ever heard of “anyone” using a 7 game stint using the same players while some on the bench could help you against different teams in different situations. The 7 game thing is just about the craziest thing I’ve ever heard.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:36 PM

DCB I’ve heard Hai Ali is exciting? I’m checking it out LOL

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:36 PM

dcbutler357

Don’t leave us alone in the desert. There is no better hobby.

The management is horrendous;
The players are talented;
and we’re having fun blogging.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:36 PM

lol….

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:37 PM

GetaBB??? I think we were ALL just about ready for a little locker stuffing right along with you LOL

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:38 PM

I am for team ball, not running the entire offense through Caron and Twan, just look at the box score, nobody else gets shots up? We were beat with an efficent team, down 2 starters, I say it again “team”. I do not care abot double double streaks, and all that other crap, I am all for team ball period.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:38 PM

Lets ask if we can use words like idiot, stupid, and sucks, since we can’t get a quality game to blog about, might as well just trash the coach….LOL…THEN we can put him in the locker….LOL

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:39 PM

Maybe we can coax the other players to freeze AJ and CB out for a few games, since the coaches can’t control them.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:40 PM

I just want to know what else can be said in the locker room? We have had (1) 2 game winning streak out of 34 games, wth

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:45 PM

They have to bring discipline in that locker room before anything changes. The discipline is running what is supposed to be ran on the floor, to resemble some sort of offense. He messed up by saying everything goes through the forwards…too late to change that now, as evidenced by the shooting boxscore.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:45 PM

DCB you made a great point earlier. If Ernie had pulled Eddie Jordan aside and told him to play the players he either drafted or traded for I don’t think we would be having all these coaching discussions today

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:48 PM

Discipline? I see no evidence of that this year. Certainly not from the coaching staff.

Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:49 PM

I guess that the “7 game stint” has replaced “one game at a time”. At least it gives a coach 7 games to try to figure out how to get some wins.

Pure B.S. I never met a coach who didn’t think that he was going to win EVERY game no matter who he was playing against.

It’s as though Tap spends most of his time trying to figure out how to justify HIS existence as opposed to trying to figure out how to help his team win some games.

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:50 PM

I cannot remember being more disappointed as a fan of the Wizards/Bullets. Basketball fans especially in the DMV is a big deal, and for that matter any fan that loves the game. Teams with less talent at least play with passion and desire and move the ball, we have 2 all-stars and they just jack it up and the others watch. I am no math major but 5 is more than 2 any day of the week right? I am not making excuses due to injury, team ball and defense no matter should be in every game, this team has nothing that they can claim they do well night in and night out (no calling card, no idenity)

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:50 PM

Grif,

This is soooo funny, we come out each day and start the blog with GO WIZ and end with “OFF WITH THEIR HEADS”….lol….

atleast it’s an out from the norms of life…LOL…Good thing we aren’t at the games, or there would be a lot of road rage going home…lol….

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:50 PM

Orrrrrrrrr we would all be drunk by half-time….

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:51 PM

So I guess we are easy to game plan for double Caron and Twan, make the others beat you.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:54 PM

LOL…No one has to double them, they aren’t going to beat anybody by themselves. That’s been proven already. All the other team has to do is show up and practice their three point shots.

Oh yeah, on that rebounding thing…of course we’re going to get outrebounded if we shoot jumpers all game….lol…why keep stats, one thing leads to another…LOL…That line will get TomM typing….lol…

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 7, 2009 at 10:57 PM

Wouldn’t it be fun to hear the conversations between AJ and CB? I would love to hear their “non-political” assessment of the situation that their in.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:02 PM

DCB that’s why they call us FANs. Short for Fanatic. Usually applys

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:03 PM

Jeff I’d love to be an opposing coach planning to play us. How hard could it be to design a game plan to beat us?

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:05 PM

Understand now this is only a RUMOR, but, I’ve heard through the grapevine that Caron actually blogs on here. I’ve heard he goes by the name GetaBigBoyOffense

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:14 PM

I’m kidding of course. But I’ll bet he does have a couple of the same views LOL

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:35 PM

How did things get so bad in 1 year man

Comment from M2
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:40 PM

Absolutely fantastic banter on the blog tonight everyone…
MVP: getabigboy

& Tom, no crystal ball… I’ve just seen Crit play since his junior year in High School & KNOW that he has the tools. You didn’t even know who he was when we traded for him & proceeded to run numbers on his whopping 750 total minutes of NBAPT… All good… I’m just saying, he’s a player & needs a little time. Watching people (mostly on Wizards Insider but some here) ask about Pech or McGee (which makes sense in McGee’s case don’t get me wrong. Pech on the other hand, is a bum) but not be enthusiastically asking about a 20 year old PG’s upside?
He will be a real nice guard for us at some point. Gil needs to stay put so that we can develop him this year. This has to be a year where DMac, Nick, Blatche & Crit get game time experience. Because we can really hope for nothing else at this point.
Jamison & Butler are screwed… Similar to the days of Pierce & DWI in Boston a few years back… It got ugly.

Comment from M2
Time January 7, 2009 at 11:47 PM

We’ll be loaded with goodies next year provided our injury problems subside.
Sit tight, cheer for the young guys to learn good lessons & make good decisions, cross your fingers that DSS is finally limited to about 10 mins a night, hope for a solid coaching change that in turn brings us new basketball “philosophies”, & pray that our Hero Zero, & Wood get right.
09/10 baby… I can’t wait!

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 8, 2009 at 1:28 AM

Here are some quotes from Twan after the game:

“Tonight, we just took a lot of jump shots instead of driving the ball early on,” Jamison said. “And then we waited until we were down by 16, 18 points before we started doing the things that got us back into it.”

Ok is it me or did Twan himself start the game launching jumpers,lol. And I hear Coach Hubbard and Tap talking about attacking the rim in every pre and post game, in a word huh?

“That’s all about effort,” Jamison said. “We just have to find a way to bring it night in night out”

I will let my fellow blog mates have it, I will not even respond to this quote,lol

Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time January 8, 2009 at 1:35 AM

Glenn I know on the post game, that Tap tells the guys to push it, and create a faster tempo, take a look at this:

From the Post (Ivan Carter)

Part of that is a product of the slower pace the team has played under interim coach Ed Tapscott, but the Wizards have also given up lower shooting percentages.

“Points can be a function of tempo sometimes,” Tapscott said. “Sometimes you play a slower-paced team, less points. That may not mean that you played better defense and then you may play terrific defense and there are still a good number points just because of the tempo of the game, so we keep different stats like field goal percentage. And one we keep on the bench that I like is the number of shots taken versus shots challenged. The idea is to give up as few open looks as possible at this level because people are so talented, open looks generally mean a field goal.”

Ok so as I am reading this, instead of attacking and dictate to other teams, we have resigned to become the slow grind it out team. Our personal really doesn’t fit a “slow down” “grind it out” style of play. So if points are a by product of tempo, can we change the tempo to score more points?

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 8, 2009 at 1:38 AM

M2… we had better be loaded with “goodies” next year because we are flat out strapped financially. The current team must pan out! Barring trades what you see is what you get. The trade for James and Crit brought 2 guaranteed contracts to our mix. No more room in the inn. 2nd round draft pick? Hope somebody has more cash.

Comment from GrifonRacing
Time January 8, 2009 at 1:43 AM

Jeff???? Jamison actually said they took a lot of jump shots early on when the plan was to drive to the hole? I can’t believe that. He was the prime culpret in NOT driving and taking the early outside jump shots. He actually set the tone for how we played tonght. He not only needs to get to the free throw line with coach Hopla he also needs to GET A CLUE? LOL

Comment from M2
Time January 8, 2009 at 2:17 AM

We’ll be fine if the things I’ve stated happen. This is a funky year folks… This stuff happens in sports.
Anticipate next seasons arrival & have the same expectations that you all had coming into this season. We’ll be even better with the development of our youngs… Development that wouldn’t have happened so quickly had it not been for the mess we are currently in & will continue to be in throughout this season.
It’s a wash… Like Miami’s 07/08…
But we don’t need cap room. We’d be absolutely stoked to land guys like Crit, Young, D Mac, Blatche, etc in the draft next year.. well, we already have them along with three veteran all stars.
We’re good, just need to get our injuries sorted out & our hands on a new coach.
It’s been a strange couple of seasons but “this to shall pass”… GO WIZ!

Comment from M2
Time January 8, 2009 at 2:18 AM

“This too shall pass”

o

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 8, 2009 at 8:32 AM

Right now the blog is more fun than the games!

Keep your sense of humor, gang — it really helps. As to the coaching, I’m sure I’d enjoy an evening of intelligent conversation with Tap, but I know, we know, Ernie knows, and I’m sure Tap knows that he isn’t really an NBA coach. But… he *is* our coach for the moment.

It’s hard to believe that the plan isn’t just to get a high lottery pick. I’d be happy to suffer this season, to tell the truth, if it meant Blake Griffin in a Wizards uni next year.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 8, 2009 at 8:36 AM

M2 — about Crittenton:

As I said, he looked all world in the 4th quarter last night; I’d love to think he can be that player night in night out.

On the other hand — and I’ve said this at least a dozen times on this blog — *everyone* in the NBA can play. Every one of them was a star growing up, the main player on his high school team, usually the dominant force on his college team. They are *all* fabulous basketball players.

The guys that can’t play don’t get in the door. But that doesn’t mean that you turn out to be a productive NBA player; sorry, it just doesn’t. I hope Critt will, I really do. Last night was just what we want from him.

Comment from neal
Time January 8, 2009 at 9:45 AM

If I want national news I read the Post. But if I really want to know what happened in a Wizards game I read this blog. Wilbon and Kornheiser are primarily Redskins guys. Apart from a couple of columns by Sally Jenkins, the Post is just good for the score.

In the last part of the Jordan era the team was dispirited, disjointed and looked hopeless. For several games under Tapscott they have played better. I hope we haven’t permanently regressed. Sounds like we are back to playing as individuals.

Comment from M2
Time January 8, 2009 at 10:49 AM

Okay, two randomly chosen players for example:

Javaris Crittenton was a two time Mr Basketball his Junior & Senior years of High School in his home state & a consensus All American both years… His senior year he was wildly considered the NUMBER ONE point guard in the country… He left school after only one year (shoulda stayed another) to be drafted by the LA Lakers midway through the 1st round & soon after beginning training camp was adopted by Kobe Bryant & considered the potential future of the franchise at the point guard position… The Lakers reluctantly let him go in a deal that brought them Gasol & the rest of the history you know.

Mike James was not even a blip on the radar in high school… slipped into Duquesne last minute on a scholarship, where he eventually thrived & by his senior year was named All Atlantic 10 Conference… Yet went undrafted & toiled around the world playing basketball until the Miami Heat gave him a look seven or eight years ago as a free agent.

I’m sure they were BOTH studs their entire lives but my point is that there are still very different degrees to this “everyone was a star growing up” concept.

Coaches know it… Scouts know it… Players know it… & fans know it.
It’s how a pecking order among “stars” is created.

Your simplistic approach makes some sense, but only in part.

Always love your take though Tom, you know that!

Comment from slwiz
Time January 8, 2009 at 11:02 AM

LOL!! Your comments last night, fans, are just TOO MUCH!! It’s all SportzWiz’s fault! He encouraged me to support the team not just a player!! I have a dozen different teams now, LOL Do you all know how hard it is to keep up with it all! I need one of those 52” screens with dividers so I can watch them all!! But your blogging keeps drawing me back!! If I hadn’t been reading since summer league, I’d think you all wanted to stuff the staff in the lockers for real! (I truly think if they read the blog and made some changes per your suggestions you all would take them out of the lockers! LOL) I don’t even want to get started on why I agree the locker stuffing makes sense (my previous posts will suffice) so I’ll briefly say Go Wiz!! Sorry Juan and JaVale are DNP’s. Keep going Javarius thank goodness you know what an assist is. Darius keep going hard as a starter. DMAC keep up the effort on the offensive threats. Andray keep up your momentum!!

Comment from dabeatkeeper
Time January 8, 2009 at 2:42 PM

Please last night was one of the worst games I’ve seen! We are a total joke of a team! With this coach we will NEVER win games. It’s a shame we have a good team with NO leadership on the coaches end! Andray and McGee should be on the court with Butler and Jamison. I do not understand if we all see it why don’t the coaches????? sad but true!

Comment from Dave22
Time January 8, 2009 at 4:10 PM

The Wids should seriously be one of the teams that looks at the Raptors old coach Sam Mitchell. The raps since regret firing him. If Mitchell were to take charge not only would he turn this team around put he do it a desirable fashion. Trust me is a very very good coach that did win coach of the year 06-07 and took the raps to the playoffs 2 years in a row. I dont know why Toronto fired him. If he were to control this team, he would give the fans something to be proud about the rest of this season if they dont make the playoffs.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 8, 2009 at 5:10 PM

M2 – as you know I’m not a big Mike James fan.

That said, you have to hand it to a guy who has worked as hard as you describe, and made it to where he earn $6m a year playing a kid’s game. One of the underappreciated skills these guys have to learn is professionalism. As you describe, Mike the term definitely applies (still waiting on Nick Young, however ).

Javaris looked very very good last night. Hope he plays another 25 minutes in Chicago.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time January 8, 2009 at 5:12 PM

slwiz — I noted w/ disappointment the other day that Dee was waived by the Suns.

I wish he was still a Wizard. I do like him a lot.

Comment from M2
Time January 8, 2009 at 5:32 PM

Dee Brown is NOT an NBA point guard… No matter how big a “star” he was in high school & college (that’s all for you Tom) …

He’s a great kid though…

Comment from rnbrown4
Time January 8, 2009 at 7:13 PM

The jokester is running the Wiz. This guy has no clue. A crime is being commited. Tapscott has no answer as to why McGee is not playing. To get outrebounded by 1 of the worst rebounding teams in the is a crime and to have someone on the bench that could help is sickening for the fans. You will never get consistent rebounding out of soft Blatche, non athletic Songaila, and brick hands Eaton. The only reason Jamison get rebounds is because he’s not gaurding anyone. He does have good reacations though. J-critt has no shot. That why he was available. Anyway go Wiz.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 9, 2009 at 9:21 AM

Good Morning Everyone,

Just about everything has already been said….IMO we keep hearing the same thing….EJordan even had the same words, but the bottom line is….We already losing, so what in the heck is he talking about. And the veterans aren’t even running anything on the floor…LOL…This team is more close to winning a spot on SNL.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time January 9, 2009 at 9:22 AM

Basically, I’m trying to say, i’m more about getting ready for the future, winning is even a priority at this point.