Game Day Heat
7:50 AM EDT….Dave Johnson checking in….still flying high from Thursday night…the crowd was great and the team even better…it would be nice to see the gang back together again tonight and we will update you on that as we have it…..the Heat are in town they played last night and clinched a playoff spot with a 97-92 win over the Bobcats…Heat are only the second team to make the playoffs after going 15-67 the season before….as a team this year the Wizards have 285 combined games missed due to injuries ( that’s number one in the league)…we probably all knew that without being told…..Gilbert Arenas said after the game Thursday he would play tonight only if Javaris Crittenton can’t go because of back spasms….should have an update after the AM shoot around.
BLOGCAST—live radio and blogging together—starts tonight at 7:00….on the radio on ESPN 980 AM…94.3 FM in Warrenton and Northern Virginia…92.7 FM in Southern Maryland…1370 AM in Baltimore and great affiliates from Cumberland to Roanoke…..
DAVE JOHNSON POSTGAME REPORT
Posted: April 4th, 2009 under Wizards.
Comments
Comment from Reuben
Time April 4, 2009 at 10:42 AM
Will gilbert play against the Raptors on Tuesday????, I need to decide whether to go to the game tonight or on tuesday.
Comment from Jaba
Time April 4, 2009 at 10:46 AM
I’m still so happy we beat Cleveland…..!!! Let’s try to carry some of that momentum over into tonight’s game! Show the rest of the league we’re for real and what this season could have been like with everyone healthy!!!!!!!!
GO WIZARDS!!!!!
And yes, Aundra, I would also like to see more of Pech. But I guess we won’t.
Comment from GrifonRacing
Time April 4, 2009 at 11:00 AM
The Heat make the playoffs a year after going 15 – 67. There are some encouraging numbers for us. If they can do it We can do it. Injuries were their downfall too.
We don’t have Phil Jackson or Gregg Popovich unfortunately. To that end Pescherov will probably continue to sit and be wasted. Director of player development my eye. Thank our lucky stars we at least got the chance to see some of Crit and JaVale. For a while I didn’t think that was going to happen.
If D Wade doesn’t get MVP this year it will be for one reason only….. the larger than life “power” of the crab dribble.
Go Wizards. These “two in a row” would really mean something 
Comment from TAG FLIP
Time April 4, 2009 at 12:25 PM
is gilbert seriously experiencing knee problems again? i read that on the nba.com preview for tonight’s game.
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:27 PM
sorry about the error guys we should be back up and running now
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:28 PM
no knee problems from gil, he said after the game thursday if Javaris was healthy he was goign to rest this game.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:31 PM
we are back
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:33 PM
technical problems done…but wizards need more energy on court
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:34 PM
haywood is getting done
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:42 PM
heat outreboudned wizards 12-4
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:43 PM
We are flat tonight. Wade is a force.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:46 PM
wlcome gbkdc sorry about the tech problems
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:47 PM
Oh no, poor Nick.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:48 PM
fingers cross on nick young that didn’t look good
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:49 PM
Thanks, DJ. All we need is another injury… Ack!
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:49 PM
wizards combined 285 game smissed to injury
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:51 PM
Tuff Juice
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:51 PM
Ouch we are being slaughtered. WHat happened to nick???
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:54 PM
nick fell to the ground with another playe and got his left leg kind of caught.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:57 PM
Argh… hope he is ok.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:58 PM
nick young left knee sprian questionable to return
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:59 PM
wizards down by 11…. 14-5 run to end the quarter
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 4, 2009 at 6:59 PM
left knee sprain questionable return for nick, he started putting pressure on it when he was walking into the locker room.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:01 PM
haywood making terrifc cuts tp the basket
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:04 PM
wizards 10 assists on 11 made field goals
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:10 PM
Free throws no good
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:12 PM
We need to get some points….
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:13 PM
yes and it hurts that isnatnt offense nick young is in the locker room
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:14 PM
Hopefully the injury to nick isn’t serious. We need a scorer right now. Wonder if Arenas would play despite his decision.
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:16 PM
hey folks jsut so you know we will have streaming video of Coach Tapscott’s postgame presser. We will give you a link closer to the end of the game, but just another feature here on WashingtonWizardsblog.com we are trying to add for you guys.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:17 PM
We need to get within 6 and have a strong 3rd quarter.
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:17 PM
speaking of videos here are two quick ones. one from the player entering the court and the otehr from tap’s pregame.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:17 PM
Who the heck is this diawara, scoring so many points with his threes.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:20 PM
14 point lead :/
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:21 PM
diaware is out of pepperdine and irony of all ironies he is know for his defense…only 32 % 3 pt shooter
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:21 PM
Sigh, please have a strong 3rd quarter.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:22 PM
lol yet he is shooting 60% 3 pointers at the moment.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:23 PM
Why is it that wizards only play with energy against Cavaliers XD
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:24 PM
not good calls
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:24 PM
Oh for crying out loud, can’t set one offence properly.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:25 PM
17 point lead.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:25 PM
This is one high fouling game. 12 for each.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:26 PM
Yeah, I have no idea. But I wish we had a good 3 pt shooter.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:27 PM
Put blatche on….
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:28 PM
Poor freethrows for both teams.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:29 PM
STOP FOULING EVERYTIME WADE DRIVES! You know he’s good at drwing fouls so just &^&*#(&$#
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM
Well, 10 point lead, we can still do this.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:30 PM
alright that is better some energy
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:32 PM
I want to see this: Haywood, BLatche, Jamison, Butler, Dominic. Outmuscle that short line up.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:33 PM
Must stink for nick, hasn’t missed a game yet :/
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:37 PM
I hope Nick is ok.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:41 PM
Dwayne wade is killing us with his drives and drawing fouls…
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:44 PM
wizards 17 asist on 19 made foield goals…7-2 second chance points heat difference
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:45 PM
sayi ng nick is just a knee sprin for now
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:45 PM
So no chance of Nick returning?
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:45 PM
heat second chance piints and our missed free throws the difference
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:47 PM
Wow, we are doing well with assists.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:47 PM
Scoring percentage ain’t really the problem right now. Bad defense and turnovers and stupid fouls are.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:49 PM
Hopefully we can get into the bonus quick this quarter. Need to get and hit those freethrows.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:50 PM
Hope that lil Nicky is ok…Thank God the season is almost over with just 4 games left after this one – - these guys NEED a break! Also, they said that Dom has been playing with Plantar Fasciitis for some time now – crazy!
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:51 PM
Yeah, we have one tired team.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:53 PM
How many fouls have wade drawn??
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:53 PM
Wow in the bonus now. Need to make the best of it.
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:54 PM
just in time to see a nasty follow dunk by Haywood
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:54 PM
HAYWOODDDDDDDDD
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:55 PM
In the bonus now, we need to drive as much as possible, make best use of it.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:55 PM
If only no wade for them lol.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:55 PM
yes wiozards not ping away huge rebound by haywood 12 points
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:56 PM
Haywood has been the NATURAL floor leader since his return; it’s great to see him back! He’s reminding me of AD out there with all the leadership….GO BRENDAN!
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:58 PM
sound like its been that kinda night is Arenas playing tonight
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:58 PM
If only we had Haywood for the entire season…. Even without arenas, we could have still been a playoff team.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:59 PM
Costly turnovers
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 7:59 PM
4 turnovers in the quarter for wizards
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:00 PM
i agree with you guys Haywood always ran the D# and has always been the one who talks on D
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:00 PM
HAYWOOODDDDDDDD
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:01 PM
8-1 run for wizards
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:01 PM
ANOTHER PUTBACK!!!!!! ROAR!
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:02 PM
He scored our first 10 points!
Hey – where’s D-Song?? Minute distributions have been crazy lately!
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:02 PM
Haywood has been at the head of this run.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:03 PM
GOodness, wizards do not pop 3s right now….
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:03 PM
haywood just getting it done
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:04 PM
Just get to the paint, let them foul us.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:05 PM
Damn it, whenever we get close, they just pull away like nothing.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:07 PM
you said it…wizards so mnay chances and just noit full taken advantage.. 4 turnoivers in quarter
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:09 PM
Jamison with very bad freethrow shooting today :/
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:11 PM
We should have been able to get the lead this quarter. We just didn’t consolidate on it.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:12 PM
CB3 for 3
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:13 PM
Too many turnovers.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:15 PM
Well, 3 point lead. But I doubt we can bring in the same energy from this quarter into the next. How many turnovers for wizarsd so far this game??
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:16 PM
Wanna see a’lot of crittenton 4th quarter doing what he does best.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:17 PM
Don’t give up, datony.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:19 PM
DAMN 3 POINTERS! Yeah I need to stay positive.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:20 PM
Forget I said that
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:20 PM
You are kidding me. 3 consecutive 3 pointers from this random same bench guy?
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:21 PM
james jones 3 for 3 from 3 in this quarter
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:21 PM
I am so pissed off now.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:22 PM
After defending Wade admirably in the 3rd. We immediately get thrashed by some unknown bench players. I can’t believe this.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:23 PM
He missed oh my goodness.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:24 PM
Wiiiiiiiiide open threes, as usual.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:24 PM
More turnovers as usual.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:25 PM
Good job, bench players kicking our ass.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:25 PM
Wow? Another three?
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:26 PM
heat 4 for 6 beyond the arc in 4rthg
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:27 PM
Let’s get into the bonus again.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:27 PM
Rofl 3 consecutive fouls.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:28 PM
“Good job, bench players kicking our ass.” – - dtp
Watch it now lol! Really – what’s the point of even getting frustrated anymore? The season is almost over…
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:29 PM
ANother three. Unfortunately my prediction was right. SUch pathetic defense in this quarter.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:29 PM
For the love of God… We need to guard the three!
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:30 PM
Lol good point. DOn’t matter anymore. But it still irritates me.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:30 PM
Another three? WoW??????
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:30 PM
This is incredible.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:31 PM
wizards 6 of 8 now this quarter beyond the arc and we missed 11 free throws this game…that is abig part of the story
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:31 PM
I know…Hopefully next season will be better for the Wiz…
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:32 PM
strange game..we have 22 asists whihc is a good number..but we have had turnovers at bad times
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:33 PM
What frustrated me the most was in 3rd quarter. Even though we fought back in the third, we could have easily had a 5 point lead if not for turnovers and poor freethrows, and throwing away chances at the freethrow line with long threes.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:34 PM
Another three….
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:35 PM
Mamma mia.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:35 PM
Rofl haywood.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:36 PM
One of the worst 4th quarter games in 2 months IMO.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:37 PM
The mentality of losing is a bad, bad thing. Once it’s there, it’s there…
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:37 PM
Amazing number of fouls lol.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:38 PM
heat 7 of 11 beyond the arc this quarter that the story
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:38 PM
Haywood is awesome. But really, I don’t know why we play sooooo well in certain games (Cleveland, Obama) and not for the other 79 games of the season.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:39 PM
Good things: Haywood, crittenton when he played
Bad things: Turnovers, defense, coaching, not giving crittenton more minutes.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:39 PM
I think that a Wiz vet should pay for Dom a vacation lol…
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:40 PM
21 points this quarter just from three pointers. OMFG
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:40 PM
Why in the name of wasn’t crittenton playing more tonight Q.Q
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:41 PM
This has been one painful season.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:43 PM
PECH! Butler had a great game.
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:43 PM
Oh please next year have a good coach…
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:43 PM
No driving – - just shooting…I just don’t get it. They don’t even look affected when they lose – it’s as if they expect it or something 
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:44 PM
GO PECH!
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:44 PM
The sad thing is we had a chance at this one :/
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:45 PM
It’s almost over. I will be happy when it ends. We need so many things… So happy Brendan is back.
Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:45 PM
thanks gang…looking forward to cleveland wednesday
301-230-0980 for post game
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:47 PM
Sigh, hopefully next few games aren’t so….. stupid.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:47 PM
Poor Mike! IDK – (I’m not really a fan no way), but Juan’s injury seems to be BS to me! Juan seems to be only about Juan…Maybe I’m wrong.
Another loss…
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:49 PM
why was nick injured. Damn heat.
Comment from gbkdc
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:50 PM
Poor Nick!!
Comment from datonypony
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:51 PM
Meh, isn’t arenas playing cavs?
Comment from ChenierFan
Time April 4, 2009 at 9:09 PM
It has to be pretty strange having Arenas in one game then held out the next. It must be hard for the team to adjust. Frankly, I’ve never seen anything like this. Either he’s in or out..
By the way, My brother had a torn miniscus two months ago and he is back on the tennis court this weekend. And he is 57. So how Gil missed all this time is inexplicable.
Speaking of knees, I hope Sportswiz will let us know about Nick’s condition right away.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 4, 2009 at 9:55 PM
I didn’t see any of the game until it was 96-86 heat, so I really don’t have any input one way or another (for this particular game). I heard TAPS post game and it sounded like he said that he told the team one thing and they did another(pertaining to taking jumpshots) I hope i’m wrong….I just hope that the team can execute in the future if Gil should happen to miss games next season.
Comment from GrifonRacing
Time April 4, 2009 at 10:01 PM
I hope so too Chenier Fan. I hope he is ok.. that looked ugly. He was putting weight on it while he was walking down the tunnel. Hopefully that’s a good sign.
It’s really nice having Brendan back! I agree with the comments above. He is the player we “really” missed this season. We have already proven we can win without Gil. We are a much better team with Gil but we can win without him. Brendan has always been our anchor and it’s great to have him back and playing like he didn’t miss a beat.
I wonder what happened to Darius tonight? There were ample opportunities to play him at his best position.. the 4. I guess the coaching staff now sees him as a 5 and with Brendan back his minutes are going to drop. It sounds silly, but, I have no other explanation for not playing a player after he plays one of his best games of the season.
Did anybody but me want to see the lineup of Crit, Nick (until the knee), Andray, Darius, and Brendan at least once when they went small (and they did it a lot) ? If Darius had been at the 4 and Brendan at the 5 when they went small I don’t think driving the lane would have been so easy for them.
We are almost used to Dominic stuffing the stat sheet every night and Crit seeming to improve every game. We seem to have all the pieces except for one. Hopefully that will be addressed this off season. I was really hoping Tapscott would be replaced before the season ended to give the new coach that extra time to prepare for next season. Hopefully it happens more sooner than later. We all need to be on the same page for next season.
Go Wizards!
Comment from Bridge
Time April 4, 2009 at 10:40 PM
I’m really not trying to be negative about the team or anything – hope I don’t be scorned for saying this lol…Ok, as much as we all seem to hate Charles Barkley, in some ways I think that he’s right. Of course some of what he says is personal instead of objective, but hey. Either way, I could care less because his horniness and mouth got his butt in trouble not too long ago. Personal attachment has made me believe that the team could succeed next season, but in all reality, I agree with him about the whole “Tawn, Caron, Gil experiment” (as HE put it). I absolutely LOVE the guys, but I just don’t see how this is all gonna happen. Yeah, you could bring a Flip [Saunders] in there – a GREAT coach – ; he’ll guarantee out of the squad a great # of wins – - a first – (maybe) second round playoff appearance, but that’s about it…Still not a championship contender. So yeah, a GOOD coach WILL do something, but don’t expect him to be no Moses! It’s just not too fun watching this team anymore…seems to be hidden animosities; something (besides the coaching situation) just ain’t right with the guys. Sometimes change is a good thing…Hell, everybody gonna be raving about the new guy(s) that come in anyway – - this league is different now…And trust me – I love the Wiz maybe a lot more than a lot of y’all do, lol, but I just find it amazing how other players have just left this team and just flourished on other teams…Is this:
“The Wizards…Where slowing development happens” ??
Comment from wizards_fusion
Time April 5, 2009 at 12:53 AM
@ Bridge:
“And trust me – I love the Wiz maybe a lot more than a lot of y’all do, lol, but I just find it amazing how other players have just left this team and just flourished on other teams…”
Umm, what? Which former Wiz player are you referring to? With the exception of Jarvis Hayes and Roger Mason Jr. this year on the Nets and Spurs, respectively, no former Wiz player is “flourishing” with their current team. Heck, I don’t consider Roger as flourishing because he’s still very inconsistent as a starter. And if you want to go further in history, you can say RIP has had a fantastic career in Detroit and Steve Blake is doing well in Portland. But, Ben Wallace’s good days are behind him and Stackhouse DID have a strong role as 6th man with Dallas but no longer.
Here are my examples to refute your comment:
1. Not Larry Hughes – whose 65 million dollar contract will get him shipped to more places than UPS.
2. Not Jared Jefferies – whose career with the Knicks have been marred by injury. And he’s no longer a “coach’s pet” with Isiah being weened out.
3. Not Awvee Storey, Donell Taylor, Billy Thomas, Mike Hall, Dee Brown.
4. Not Antonio Daniels – whose backup role in New Orleans isn’t even as productive as the one he had in DC.
- -
Anyways, Tap said his team played hard and kept chipping away but those 3 pointers from James Jones (he used to play in Phoenix under the D’antoni system!!!) and Wade closed the game (Tap kept emphasizing that Wade is a closer – um, I think most of us know that).
Wade was out-of-this-world tonight. It seems like he ALWAYS have a great game against the Wiz. Besides his usual craftiness getting himself 20 FT attempts every game, Wade’s jumpers (a weak part of his offensive game) was on and every pump fake got Dom in the air. Althought Wade owned Dom tonight, Dom is going to get better as a result. Wade didn’t even play that many minutes tonight and he still dominated the game. LeBron presents the Wiz problems because of his passing and court vision but Wade gets on the Wiz because of his relentless drives to the basket.
One thing that I thought Tap failed late was he stopped sending 2 guys to get the ball out of Wade’s hands with about 9 minutes to go in the game. The game was like 80-77 Heat. After Wade was free to roam once again, he just didn’t miss (aka he was on fire). Also, Wade starting baiting the Wiz and with crisp perimeter passing, the Heat were able to get the ball to James Jones and he just killed the Wiz from the same spot that RIP killed the Wiz last Saturday. As much as I like Ayers, the Wiz’s defensive schemes against the 3 is terrible and has always been terrible during the Eddie Jordan era. The Cavs tied the game with 3s the other night; the Heat ended the Wiz’s hopes with late 3s tonight.
I’d say, if the current Wiz group wants to get to the Finals, they need to overhaul their 3-point defense.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 5, 2009 at 5:40 AM
LOL…Cant stop the three and can’t stop penetration…lol…what else is left? Foul Shots? probably will get a lane violation trying that one……
Earlier this year we were contemplating who to get rid of, and yes Barkely was partially correct(in regards to us not winning with JUST the big three). From my point of view (which may not be worth two cents…heck I may owe something back…lol..), we have needed more help down low, with Brendan to get over the hump. We have seen his value to the defense. And let’s not forget, prior to last season, our center position was up in the air.
Soooo here’s my take. We could keep our team intact (with AJ coming off the bench since he’s pure offense and he’s proven he can play that role). With AB and JMcgee improving (PLEASE DO), we can still have a Brendan-like presence down low and get this done
PLUS, with JCritt developing, we can get a GOOD power forward/Center out of the draft, and a few other moves to bolster the roster (i have faith in ErnieG), Sir Charles can start giving the Wiz their props or we’ll know for sure that he has a grudge (not that his word matters a whole lot…)
I’m still pumped about next year
To heck with the naysayers
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 5, 2009 at 5:44 AM
Oh yeah, did I forget to mention a new coaching staff(one that can coach in the NBA)….lol….and PLEASE don’t let him to continue as Player Development, cuz I don’t see anything that he has developed, except a good friendship with mgmt….
So, I guess I originally didn’t mention it, because even Stevie Wonder can see we need a new coach……..
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time April 5, 2009 at 8:05 AM
Hope Nick is ok. Seems possible he’ll be out the last few games, but lets just keep good thoughts that if so he can be back working on his game later this month.
I know we got within 3, but that really wasn’t a competitive game; the Heat were in control most of the way.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 5, 2009 at 9:07 AM
LOL @ wizards_fusion…Dude, I don’t even read everything you write. Not tryna be disrespectful – but, hey, I’m glad you did your research lol. I’m not looking for anyone to agree with me – never have, never will…
And to be exact – to “Fourish” (means): GROWTH; to be at one’s prime; of excellence; of influence; of fame…You personally might not think that the guys that you named didn’t/hasn’t flourished, but I still think so. All of the examples that you provided are pretty one-sided and only based upon your own personal definition of what it is to “flourish.” Some of it is even inconclusive; how do we know how Dee Brown is doing…What about Ben Wallace’s career at Chicago (IMO)…Larry Hughes is just a joke (I’m sorry)…Maybe you don’t keep up with AD in New Orleans – just his numbers perhaps?…I’m not even gonna continue to go on about what I consider a “lost cause”. I watch like almost EVERY game per night that’s being played on each given night – - while I tend to keep up with certain teams more, I DO watch around the league because I AM a basketball fan. [Man, I'm glad that I don't think that I'm a know-it-all or something. No brownie points are given for "stronger opinions" - calm down lol.]
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time April 5, 2009 at 11:42 AM
Oh, I agree w/ Bridgey that some bonehead moves by the Wizards have led to guys who would have been terrific to have going elsewhere and “flourishing.”
Lets start w/ trading Rasheed Wallace in his 2d year (I think) for Rod Strickland in the waning years of his career. A terrible trade, although not the worst trade.
Or, how about trading Ben Wallace and I forget what else for… Isaac Austin!!
Or, worst of all, trading Chris Webber at his best for Mitch Richmond at the end of his career.
Trading Richard Hamilton for Jerry Stackhouse was a bad trade as well. He was always over-rated, and Rip has gone on to become one of the better 2 guards in the league.
Letting Stevie Blake go wasn’t smart, and letting Roger go after a good year was foolish as well. As to Jarvis, no he isn’t “flourishing” w/ the Nets. He’s still in the league, that’s about all you can say.
Now, except for dispending w/ Roger, none of these decisions were made by Ernie Grunfield I don’t think. They’re just history. Bad history, tho.
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time April 5, 2009 at 1:23 PM
To All My Fellow Bloggers:
Dave, Glenn and Sportzwiz, I am coming into town to visit family and friends for Easter, and I realized that the Wizards and Raptors play on the 13th (final home game). So I thought hmmm, we have talked about maybe having a blooger day at the game so why not the last game of the year? So I think I will stay in town and see if I can grab up some tickets and enjoy the game (and the Wizards win) with some of my fellow bloggers. Maybe we could all get together 30min to an hour before game time and meet Sportzwiz, Dave and Glenn??
So my fellow bloggers and bloggets, what do you guys think? And please Dave, Glenn and Sportzwiz chime in.
Comment from Bridge
Time April 5, 2009 at 2:51 PM
Jeff, I think that that’s a GREAT idea for those that are around town…If it all goes down, I hope that you guys have a lot of fun 
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time April 5, 2009 at 3:24 PM
No way I’ll be able to make it, but if you do get together — someone bring a camera and create an album on Facebook or Flickr or somewhere.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 5, 2009 at 7:54 PM
JeffM,
Sounds like a plan
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time April 5, 2009 at 7:59 PM
ok dcbutler sounds like a plan, hopefully we will get SportsWiz, Dave and Glenn and bloggers will get involved.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 5, 2009 at 10:32 PM
JeffM,
Do you have your ticket yet?
Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time April 5, 2009 at 10:39 PM
I can’t stand saying the same things game after game; but the truth is the truth. This it for 2008-2009 for Gabbo!
Our head coach is not worth a nickle. To return him to the position of Director of Player Development is a farse. The man is an attorney. Perhaps a good one. Let him try to pass some bar exam and get the job he was educated to do (lot’s of luck Tap).
My fellow blogger Tom Mandel not withstanding, I am convinced that we are a championship caliber team as we are constituted. If we are able to improve our roster, so much the better. I am sure that Juan will not be renewed; if Pech’s contract is over, so is he; if we can find a way to trade Etan and/or Mike James, we will do so. I would love to see everyone else return for the 2009-2010 season.
A 2009-2010 starting lineup of:
Gil
AJ
CB
BH
to be determined
is a winner.
We will need additional basketballs in the game to keep the big three happy, so I guess the TBD will be Dominic, only because he doesn’t have to score to be happy. I would prefer that CB move to the 2, AJ move to the 3 and Andray take the four. It gives us better board strength and more flexibility inside on defense.
I’m sure that everyone on the blog recognizes that I believe that ‘Dray is a key to the future of the Wiz. I think that with the appropriate coaching Blatche could be an all-star. He was drafted out of high school and had EJ (didn’t know squat about big man basketball) as a coach. Then he got Tap (didn’t know squat about big man basketball) as a coach. If Andray gets a big man offense coach, he’ll be terrific. Can the Wiz management say Patrick Ewing? Can Patrick then say “Zo help me out with the big guys”?
I can’t wait for 2009-2010 to begin.
Gi Wiz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time April 6, 2009 at 12:22 AM
dcbutler-looking to pick them up this week, have you purchased tickets yet?
Comment from neal
Time April 6, 2009 at 8:24 AM
McGee makes so many dumb mistakes. Should we congratulate Tapscott for keeping McGee on the bench for so long, or blame Tapscott’s “meritocracy” for not giving McGee more opportunity to learn?
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 6, 2009 at 8:39 AM
JeffM,
Let me know what section you’re in, so I can get mine near yours……dcbutler@sbcglobal.net/blackberry….
Neal,
I just hope that he gets into the best “bigman” camp on the planet over the summer….
Getabig,
The suffering is just about over
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 6, 2009 at 8:40 AM
BTW-I love the videos that NBA.COM has on facebook…they go straight to the video, no commercials or anything….
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 6, 2009 at 8:41 AM
Oh, I forgot to say Good Morning
Good Morning!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 6, 2009 at 9:43 AM
JeffM,
One of the bloggers just hit me up and I have agreed to acquire two tickets in section 106 E (one is for me). If you don’t need the other ticket, let me know, so I can plan accordingly.
I’ll keep the blogger anonymous for privacy reasons
Comment from jeffmalone1990
Time April 6, 2009 at 11:07 AM
sounds like a plan dcbutler, and I appreciate the offer I should finalize my plans in the next 24-48 hours, hopefully we can get some more bloggers out! I will also send you an e-mail
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 6, 2009 at 12:08 PM
Thanks anonymous blogger, good looking out
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time April 6, 2009 at 3:36 PM
Getabig — I hope you are not serious about disappearing from the blog until next year!
There is *lots* to discuss here, and I don’t just mean how right I am about everything (although we can talk about that if you like).
We could start by looking at Andray’s performance this year, which is more or less identical to his performance last year.
What about Nick? You mean you are going to *abandon Nick to my critiques?* You’re not going to be here to *defend him?* 
Don’t leave us, Getabig — please don’t.
Comment from Wizards4Life
Time April 6, 2009 at 5:00 PM
yeah GABBO we need you to rebut Tom’s testimonies as well as prove him wrong we know he cant be right all the time
Comment from neal
Time April 6, 2009 at 5:04 PM
Please don’t go, getabig.
Comment from Reuben
Time April 6, 2009 at 6:11 PM
This is the greatest thing ever!!
O by the way sportzwiz tell glen im going to the wizards camp i saw he was the head of it
Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time April 6, 2009 at 10:23 PM
Tom M.,
Thanks very much for the acknowledgement, but I think that I have said everything that I have to say about this year’s team/management.
However, as a final salvo…
I hope that I have been influential in the dismissal of EJ; however, I’m sorry that that led to the appointment of Tap;
I wish that I could have annoyed the Wiz management enough to get McGee and Slick even more game-time;
With the sighting of Waldo and the return of Brendan, coupled with AJ (best-of-the-best), and CB, I am firmly convienced (without a recurrence of the injury count of this year), that, even without some draft-pick savior, the Wiz will kick butt in 2009-2010.
I’m sure that your stats are negative on Young and Blatche (and maybe on McGee), but I believe that with the correct coaching (I have yet to see that from the Wiz) all three can be all-star-caliber players.
Your man, McGuire has demonstrated solid defensive play, but he needs to develop a scoring touch to enhance his career. If he could average 10+ per game, he would be able to demand a very nice salary package.
As a former coach, I can see the potential of all four of these players. They all just need some skill-specific coaching!!!!!!!! How I hope that we hire someone who has both basketball and common sense to replace the LOTTERY COACH.
Go Wiz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment from getabigboyoffense
Time April 6, 2009 at 10:34 PM
dcbutler, Jeff M., Tom M., ChenierFan, Wizards4Life, neal,
Thanks for your posts and your comments to my posts. I enjoy everyone of them.
Enough said.
Go Wiz!!!!!!!!!
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 6, 2009 at 10:55 PM
Getabig,
That’s what blogging is all about
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time April 7, 2009 at 7:24 AM
Getabig — there is no “savior” in the draft, but there is one player who at least may be a big time player in the league. It’d be great to get him — any GM would think that — and we have a shot at it, a chance to get lucky. That’s a good thing.
As to Blatche, Young and McGee all being all-star capable players, ask yourself if *any team* in league history has picked all stars in 3 out of 4 drafts, drafting in the middle of the first round or below. The answer is no, no one ever has. That ought to tell you that it’s your enthusiasm talking.
McGee has a chance to be a very good player — but it’s all “upside”, potential. A lot of things could intervene. Talent and achievement are *not* the same thing, as those of us who’ve lived a long life must surely know.
Andray isn’t even an average player yet. Nor did he improve this year; his numbers are the same as last year. Nick is making strides on defense, and if he can discipline himself to keep doing that, he could become an NBA starter. Very few guys picked 16th in the draft become starters, by the way, so that is doing well for him.
The problem with overestimating the players on your team is obvious. It makes it hard to build a better team.
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 7, 2009 at 8:44 AM
Good Morning,
As DJ and Glen have pointed out numerous times this year, most of the players have played out of their “natural” positions this year. The experience gathered this season should help “propel” the players to greater heights. Not looking at the numbers and just going by memory, AB has played better than previously. He has made mistakes, but for the most part, he has been a better player than in the past imo. NY has become more assertive and has more than just offense to offer (better D and assists and rebounds), JCritt is getting better and he even helps rebound. When we think about the draft, we should be looking at how can this person help the wiz, or what are the wizards “need (s)”.
I recall hearing about the difference, about how pittsburgh or baltimore drafts and how the redskins draft. Whereas one team drafts to build up their team’s needs and the other just simply goes after the best player in the draft (and we’ve seen the results).
At this point, I just want the team to have inter-changeable parts, whereas, if Gil isn’t playing, we have someone to come in and efficiently run the offense or if Brendan needs a break or is in foul trouble, McGee can come in and hold down the fort. Just like one of the NCAA teams stated (Louisville woman’s team)…..”we don’t have any ALL-AMERICANS or anything, We have a team that works hard and gets the job done”
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 7, 2009 at 8:50 AM
BTW-Congrats to Michael Jordan, John Stockton, David Robinson, C Vivian Stringer, AND Jerry Sloan on reaching the NBA Hall of fame (they were already HOFs in the way they carried themselves, its just formal now)
Congrats to the ACC and NC!!!
And I love the Md Terps, but Goooooo UConn, cuz they are totally demolishing their opponents
Comment from dcbutler357
Time April 7, 2009 at 10:02 AM
Right on time…from facebook (i rest my case)
Official Washington Wizards Page Gametime Magazine: Excitement Builds for the Future Results have not clouded optimism for the Washington Wizards. Beneath the surface of one of the most difficult seasons in franchise history, it is clear that diamonds are beginning to emerge, and there is genuine excitement building for the future.
Comment from M2
Time April 7, 2009 at 12:26 PM
Gabbo…. You have company
See y’all next year. As stated previously, what’s needed to be said has been said… & I’m not much of the “great three by Butler” blogger.
You guys hold it down!
Tom, expecting you to captain the team again next season (so save some of your really good stuff )…
09/10 will be a very different season!
Comment from SportzWiz
Time April 7, 2009 at 1:12 PM
guys just letting you know we’ll have some great draft coverage as well as off season stuff, hope you’ll stick around for all of it.
Comment from Tom Mandel
Time April 7, 2009 at 2:01 PM
“We believe when healthy we can compete with anyone”, said Grunfeld. — more of the same blah blah. What was our record when Arenas went down in ’07; that’s how good we are.
“Blatche …made more of a commitment to rebounding.” More of the same blah blah: last year, 425 rebounds in 1675 minutes. This year 55 fewer rebounds in 10 fewer minutes.
Comment from GrifonRacing
Time April 7, 2009 at 9:32 PM
I expected Andray’s rebounding numbers this season to be less than last season. It is much harder to rebound without Brendan in there boxing out for you. 5 isn’t his strongest position. He rebounds better from the 4… see above lol. Dominic is grabbing quite a few of them this season too.l
Comment from GrifonRacing
Time April 7, 2009 at 10:22 PM
I don’t know Tom? A couple things have changed since then. Hopefully for the good. IF Gil is 100% (he looks to be at least close) and Brendan is 100% (he looks closer)…. Deshawn took the time off to let his back, knee, ankle, and left ear lobe heal and he regains his swagger of defense and scoring (guys don’t forget him he could be a valuable piece in the puzzle)….. Nick continues to develop defensively to the point where he is at least close to equal to what we had with Roger, or, maybe exceeds it??….. Crit continues to impress and learns to develop a couple “speeds”…..JaVale builds on his very solid first season….all Andray has to do is be Andray with less fouls….and we get Blake Griffin?
I don’t know Bud. I know I’m the eternal optomist but I really think we have a team for next year. If Healthy.
Comment from GrifonRacing
Time April 7, 2009 at 10:23 PM
And Abe forks over the cash lol
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Comment from AUNDRA
Time April 4, 2009 at 8:17 AM
ROLL CALL
How is J-Critt is his back still in limbo or not Sportwiz.
How is The Captain will he make it this game or does he need a game or two of rest?
How is Juan Dixon doing will we see him anymore this season!
Pecherov will we see him play anymore this year?
D-Wade in my humble opinion is the MVP of the league because he is #1 in scoring ,#1 defensive player and just a good human being! This Miami team has the best stealers in the game today with Wade & Chalmers. However they are playing a back to back so you know what we have to do “RUN RUN RUN RUN” them all 48 minutes. Load up on pasta and 5 hour energy and lets roll! We played great team ball so I expect another Huge Crowd at the Phone Booth so we need Consistency!