Comment from Jason C
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:40 AM

Whats up fellow bloggers, been posting rarely b/c of school but just want to chime in on the last 2 games.

1) The chemistry is just a lot better now it seems, I really liked the “big 3″ when they were peaking back in ’05 but I guess it was time to move on.

2) It seems like we have added some guys who actually want to play defense. Really liking what I’m seeing from Singleton.

3) The effort is there. Just didn’t see very much of it the last 2 years. (Probably a result of the young guys trying to prove they belong)

Hope we keep the winning streak going, its been a while since a 3-gamer. Go Wiz!

Comment from ChenierFan
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:40 AM

What’s going on here?

I leave for two weeks to Ukraine (my wife and I are adopting) and my beloved Wizards have changed from a team that was undersized, under-hustling, “All-Star” laden, to a team with a group of guys who have a chip on their shoulder. As the old song goes…”At last!” The old team had a sense of entitlement because of their “All-star” pedigree. That does not cut it.

Some random thoughts…
1) Glad to see Brother Tom (Mandel) back on the blog. I was worried that something happened.
2) Nice move by Ernie to trade Dom back to his home area. James Singleton is the same type of player but bigger, stronger, meaner and higher skilled.
3) Thanks to Brendan, Dom, Antawn, Deshawn, & Caron for the memories. From now on, however, I will refer to them by last name only since they are now opponents.
4) Too bad we couldn’t get Hickson for Jamison. But we got Al, who is a very capable player. I do think Hickson will be a Wizard one day.
5) Andray is now The Boss, and looks eager to play the part.
6) Ernie is a genius for duping anyone to take Stevenson.
7) Jamison will turn the Cavs into a kinder, gentler, softer team. But what about those “floaters”?
Butler will have his moments with the Mavs, but is not at the level he used to be.
9) I read that Michael Wilbon thought the new version of the Wizards would be worse than the Nets. I guess he bought into the conventional wisdom (tacitly propagated by Jamison and Butler) that the the only thing holding the Wiz back was the lousy supporting cast. Let’s look at facts. Gil, Butler, Jamison, and Haywood were together this year for maybe 20-25 games. Did they have a winning record? No. Not even close. Maybe the “All-stars” were holding the supporting cast back. Time will tell. So far, so good.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:52 AM

re: McGee

Want to elaborate a bit more from what Tom M. said in the previous thread. It is true that McGee is swinging the entire length of the pendulum with his play. At least he’s playing and he’s not hurting the team to the point of no return.

He took some crazy shots last night (he already knew he was going to be subbed out by Flip afterwards) and had a hard time containing the explosive Nene (man, Nene always does his running curl in the paint but his first steps were unreal – kinda like watching a young Shaq doing spin moves off a pivot move).

McGee has to do 2 things on defense when trying to play man-to-man in the paint:

a) Has to use his arms wisely. From what I’ve seen, he bodies up to his man, and he lets them roll off of him. When the roll beats Javale, he flails his arms at the ball and 9/10 times he wacks the other guy’s elbow instead and gets called for a foul.

Most of the guys that try to score in the the post don’t use the backboard. If Javale disrupts his man enough, say, the vision during the shot, the ball is going to bounce off the rim for a miss.

b) Has to move those feet of stone. Javale’s lateral movement is poor and I think he’ll have to work extra hard to get some quick feet in the off-season. Javale lets his man roll off of him because his feet is not moving along with his arms. Once the guy turns the corner, it’s over for Javale and he gets beat (either the guy scores, or Javale fouls him, or both).

Footwork is of greatest need for this kid. Even with a skinny frame, he can play most centers if he works on the two things mentioned above.

PS – remember that play when Melo just sliced through the lane for a layup with Javale running right next to Melo but with his back turned? How come no Wiz told McGee to turn his head and look? At least draw a foul or something.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:57 AM

Comment from ChenierFan
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:40 AM

Maybe the “All-stars” were holding the supporting cast back. Time will tell. So far, so good.

- – -
No doubt – the Big 3 were playing so many minutes that left very little for the other 5 guys in Flip’s 8 man rotation.

Maybe things would have been better if the Big 3 played 32 minutes per game instead of 42 minutes per game. But, Flip wasn’t going to see that way.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:19 AM

bosh is hurt and not playing (he was my biggest worry for tonight with no haywood to contain him)

although this is a back to back, only one guy played more than 30 minutes last night: al thornton at 32 minutes, so i don’t think fatigue will be a problem

the wiz are on a high, and guys are hungry, i think they will win tonight. scoring is never a problem against the raptors, the key is to defend them, and shucks now i’m not even worried about that, what a feeling lol

Comment from dmac
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:27 AM

Man it seems like not only Caron has a breath of fresh air but our young guy’s and the new do as well.
This was a good game last night. It also showed how Flip is willing to use more 7-8 players.
AB got off to a great start. Whether he knows it or not he can be a big problem down in the paint with his quickness and agility. The more time he get’s the more refined he will become. As he refines his game he will learn to let the game come to him. He reminds me of a young CWebb at Sac.
Javale is doing what is normal. He is free. He has been locked down so much on the bench he is error prone from lack of experience. Javale needs a big man coach and nutrionist to put some muscle on and he will be unstoppable. I predict if they invite Javale to the NBA dunk contest he will win it. He has better hops and dunking skill than Dwight. He has just not had the opportunity to grow as a player.
You all keep saying that we won’t bring Josh Howard back after this season. Before making that assumption we should wait until season end. It very well may be if we are going to keep Miller and Howard to go alongwith Thornton. Like EG said the players performance will dictate what they will do in the future.
I think Mike Miller would be even more dangerous if he was not so unselfish and asserted himself on offense even more.
I was just imagining the length that AB and Javale bring to to the starting lineup it will cause some problems for teams in the second half.
By bringing Gil back is really a bonus for rebuilding.
I believe he will definitely seize the moment when he get’s back to make this team succesful.

Comment from HardCoreFan
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:11 AM

I am really looking forward to the game tonight. I agree that McGee needs more experience on the floor – yes he made some bad shots but hey that just part of the growing pains. I think the keys to the game was: team effort, defense, quickness, and engery. I will miss CB, AJ, and BH but we didn’t see those things with that group. Big 3 is the past – Team is the future.

Go “New” Wizards!

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:35 AM

C’mon Wizards, let’s get those 3 W in a row and keep that adrenalin pumping! @ Dmac I think you’re right what you wrote about Josh Howard. Let’s not be too hasty with making statements about who will DEFINETELY be here or won’t be here next season. I really do like Josh Howard’s game and hope he’ll be around for a while. Anyway, I’m hoping for the fun to continue a little longer. I’m cautious however, since we’ve had these good two game spans befor, only to see them being followed by four or even six game losing streaks. I really hope the new Wiz team will brake that spell tonight! I really do!!

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:42 AM

And I hope Randy Foye will have a better game tonight than he had yesterday. Go Wizards!!!

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:58 AM

randy foye is a guy who can give you a spectacular night every once in a while, so if he’s struggling and the teams still winning, that only means he’s gonna go off soon

i wouldn’t be surprised if that’s tonight, especially against calderon who is one of the worst pg defenders in the league

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 12:06 PM

At the Raptor’s nest tonight.

BIG thumbs up for ‘Dray.

Go Wiz!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 12:09 PM

There is no Big anything except TEAM going forward! The age of the Wizard hot dogs is over.

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 12:26 PM

Wouldn’t it be terrific if McGee progressed like Blatche has? Remember the dumb things Blatche used to do, and some wrote him off. Now he actually looks pretty smooth, and is a force on both ends.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 1:04 PM

well it definitely has appeared that flip has taught blatche the game

now it looks like flip is going to have to play mcgee whether he likes it or not, so i only hope that he intends to teach mcgee and mcgee intends to listen

mcgee does make a lot of mistakes, but a lot of them he makes up with his energy and hustle. now if his shot selection can improve drastically (while it’s bad it shouldn’t take much to fix it), his passing can be developed, his strength can be fixed, and he can find an identity on offense (even if that means playing clean up guy, getting boards and making the right cuts to the rim) he can wind up being a great starter. with experience he can be just as good as haywood was for this team this season, but flip and him have to work together.

as for tonight, i can’t wait for the bench to come in. i expect lil earl to have a great game tonight. he will be able to blow by jose calderon with ease, so i expect double digit scoring from him, and a great second half. if he can effectively mix that with keeping the ball movement going (which i say have him in the game with mike miller and nick young since he knows where those guys like to be and seems to connect well with them) he will be one of the best players for the wiz tonight.

Comment from aznzero
Time February 20, 2010 at 1:13 PM

dont really have too much to say since everyone pretty much covered it. blatche is clearly the future of the team. remember when we drafted him he was called the poor man’s rasheed wallace. He’s not hitting threes like wallace, but he’s developing into a great player. javale is what we expected him to be a year ago if he got playing time.

really excited about this new look team. it took me about a day to get over the trades, but it’s just different seeing those guys in different uniforms. i still remember when we got haywood a very long time ago. we got a nice group of young talent with alot of energy. something we havent had for a while.

i hope randy picks it up because i have him in my fantasy team. i got miller too and he’s been playing well. i’m thinking of giving javale a shot on my team

its great to see positive posts on this blog. to me it feels like i knida got tired of the analytic stuff of how horrible the team or some of the players are. i guess i just remember when the blog started awhile ago and it was alot of positive comments. then again that was when our team was playing well. but im just a fan. i haven’t done this in a while…

Go Wizards!!!!!!!!!!

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 1:20 PM

Singleton, a 6-8 PF, gets more rebounds per minute played than Ilgauskas, a 7-3 C.

When in HS Singleton took 2nd in a Chicago-wide 3 point shooting contest.

I’ve become a Singleton fan.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 1:21 PM

i’m just glad to see us rebound in the right direction. is there any way whatsoever that we can get a point guard from dleague or something. We’re not in the hunt for a playoff spot right now, but IMO a half-decent, okay we already have a half-decent, but if we get a pass-first point right now, it would really complement what we have going on right now….not rocking the boat, just asking a question.

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 1:55 PM

Neal – I really think that Singleton is really going to try to make the most of his stay with the Wizards. He’ll probably log more minutes than he did in Dallas and has the chance to show off what he can do. And if he’s able to keep up the energy level, he’ll have a decent chance of sticking around!

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 2:05 PM

Is there a point guard talent in the D-League??

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 2:28 PM

I’m sure there is talent good enough. It’s probably moreso what type of point are we looking for. It seems we keep looking at “combo” guards, or guards that we WANT to be combo guards, but are really two guards that TRY to add point into their style. I think Westbrook/OKC just happened to be good enough to cross-over into a combo guard….we need some more luck right now

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 2:57 PM

there are a couple of good distributive pgs in the draft, if people are willing to wait that long

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:08 PM

LOL….we waited YEARS for meaningful changes…so no biggee.

top assists leaders in NBDL Below. Some names sound familiar. I noticed Donnel Taylor is in the D League, we drafted him about 5 years ago (not that we need him, I just mentioned him because I saw his name)

http://www.nba.com/dleague/statistics/player/Assists.jsp?league=20&season=22009&conf=OVERALL&position=5&splitType=9&splitScope=GAME&qualified=N&yearsExp=-1&splitDD=All Teams

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:16 PM

The wiz have the Dakota Wizards as their D-League affiliate. How active are we with this? Kind of amazing why we wouldn’t have any talent waiting for a chance to hit the big league, expecially during times like this.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:17 PM

Oh, just thought about it, Tap is our scout person…rofl….when can we get to the point when we don’t have to mention him anymore….LOL…

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:27 PM

donnell taylor is a scoring guard who’s averaging 2.8 apg this season, definitely not what the wizards need, he’d be no better than foye or boykins

i like will conroy myself, he would be a great pickup for a lot of teams out of the d league

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:31 PM

Did a little research today. A “non-simultaneous trade” is allowed, giving the receiving team up to a year to send the trading team a player of comparable salary. In such case the player of comparable salary can be a draft pick. So that must be how we traded McGuire for a Sacramento draft pick. I wonder just how “protected” that draft pick is. The league must be taking its time approving the trade.

I guess Tom is happy at least one team agrees with him that McGuire has a future as an NBA player. I like Singleton better, though.

Our two suspended players are not paid during the suspension. Since the league, rather than the Wiz, suspended Arenas and Crittenton, half the salary the were due does not count against “team salary” for salary cap or luxury tax purposes. Therefore, I figure we were w/i about $200,000 of the $69.92M luxury tax threshhold. Therefore, taking McGuire off the payroll mid-season did the job – we’re under the threshhold.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:47 PM

I was going to use this as an example to get Vaquez from MD, but it doesn’t fit the bill….Randolph Morris

After his freshman year at Kentucky, Morris declared himself eligible for the 2005 NBA Draft. He was not drafted, but because he did not hire an agent, Morris was allowed to return to Kentucky to continue playing college basketball. At the same time, because the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement prohibited him from re-entering into a future draft, Morris was also legally a free agent, who could be signed at any time; he would be able to leave Kentucky in the middle of the college basketball season if signed by an NBA team.[4]

Morris took advantage of being a free agent, and signed a two-year, $1.6 million contract with the New York Knicks on March 23, 2007, 5 days after Kentucky was eliminated from the NCAA Tournament.[5] Morris became the first player in history to go from the NCAA to the NBA in the same week, when he signed with the New York Knicks. When the then head coach of Kentucky, Tubby Smith resigned and took the job with the Minnesota Golden Gophers, the University of Kentucky and Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart asked Morris to wait until UK found a new head coach to replace Smith, but Morris chose to sign with the Knicks instead of waiting.

In the summer of 2008, Morris joined the summer league team of the Atlanta Hawks, and signed a two year, $1.7 million contract with the Hawks on July 29.

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 3:56 PM

Singleton is a 48% FG shooter, 83% from the FT line, in his pro career. In his last year in college he shot 54%, 44% from 3 point range, averaging 15 pts per game.

I am a James Singleton fan.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 4:05 PM

i was a james singleton fan in dallas as well, i considered him to be their dominic mcguire, but he’s surprised me, i didn’t realize he was this good

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 5:13 PM

@dcbutler357 – you just mentioned Tap-out to get my blood boiling…success. He’s our scout??? Good grief.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 5:15 PM

@gray16 – Donnell Taylor was with the Wizards for 2 years beginning in 2005-2006.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 6:25 PM

5:25 PM EST…Dave and Glenn checking in….No Chris Bosh tonight because of a mild ankle sprain

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 6:25 PM

I just remember D. Taylor as being about as fast as any player I ever saw.

But I don’t think we have any really emergency. Foye and Boykins can hold the fort until we get Arenas back next year.

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 6:50 PM

Quinton Ross doesn’t shoot much. But I guess that doesn’t automatically make him a pass-first pointguard. What exactly does he bring to the table? I really don’t know much about him. Is he like DeShawn? A defensive specialist without a shot? (I know…DS used to have a shot…)

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 6:50 PM

Woo let’s get 3 wins in a row. just really need to defend the raptors from the perimeter. Their inside will be weak as ever, and especially if bosh isn’t in the mix.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 6:52 PM

Quinton ross is a solid defender, I seem to remember his catch and shoot 3 pointer as being not too shabby. But singleton is a better player anyway.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 6:55 PM

No Chris Bosh? Cool, I will take any advantage we can get

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:04 PM

@ gabbo, yeah i remember donnell, heck wasn’t he starting some games in the 2008 playoffs lol

i liked his upside because of his athleticism, but he never panned out well.

but still, even if he got better than he was then, which it seems he has, he’s still not what the wizards would need (back).

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:05 PM

make that 2007 playoffs, the one where both gil and caron were hurt

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:06 PM

back to my original question….what’s the point of our d-league team……

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:34 PM

I thought Ross was a SG. Am I wrong?

We have four draft picks next year, one early in the first round, one neal the end of the first round, and two near the start of the second round. I presume that at least one will be a PG and at least one will be a C.

Comment from neal
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:41 PM

I agree, dcbutler. What’s the point of our association with a d-league team?

Looks like we potentially have another traffic jam at PF: Blatche, Singleton, Thornton, Preldzic and Veremeenko.

Or is Thornton considered a 3?

I hope Veremeenko and Preldzic come for the summer league.

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:47 PM

dcbutler – we DID send a couple of our players to the D-League to get some valuable playing time instead of warming the Wizards bench. If I remember correctly, Peter John Ramos was one of them. I’m not sure, but even Dray might have spend a little time there. Or was it Pech…?

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 7:56 PM

well it’s hard to send players to d league when

a) you don’t draft that many people, usually trade away picks

and

b) have a lot of players injured and need the young guys

nick wasn’t supposed to be a d leaguer and it wouldn’t have helped him anyway. it would’ve just made him play a number 1 option role, which would’ve just got him away from a team concept even more.

dom could’ve been sent down his first season, he’s the one exception imo.

blatche got shot, so his early career wasn’t battling on a court, but battling to get back on the court. and when he did, he did play in d league, so they used it.

but these past two seasons, they have been needed due to injury so it has been hard to send anyone down.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:00 PM

6:58PM EST….starters are in…..Raptors Jarrett Jack and DerMar DeRozan at guards…Rasho Nesterovic at center….Andrea Bargnani and Hedo Turkoglu at forwards…..Wizards will have Foye and Miller at guards…McGee at center…Miller and Blatche at forwards

Comment from dlts20
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:01 PM

DJ, not to be picky but you put Miller’s name twice. We all know that you meant Howard though

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:02 PM

@Jaba,

Thanks I remember those times. My point is why don’t we have some point guards or anything else down there, learning the ropes, so that we can call them up for 10 day contracts or something? We own the team with two other teams. Donell Taylor was a lonnngggg time ago, and he’s still on the team? Ramos was a while ago also. Why do we have the team, or is it just associated to us by name? That should be one of our primary resources when we don’t have someone OR a “skill-set” on our bench. IMO

Comment from dlts20
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:02 PM

I hope McGee is ok and isnt just playing because he’s afraid that he’s finally getting his shot and if he sits then he may lose his starting gig to Singelton. I dont want him out there if he’s going to be injuried & crappy

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:03 PM

Miller playing two positions?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:04 PM

Maryland won

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:04 PM

here we go boradcast underway…great night last night on the blog…looking for a bigger night tonight

Comment from Jaba
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:10 PM

Let’s go Wizards!!!!!!!!

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:15 PM

well guys lets go get it

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:16 PM

really need to guard the 3 pointer…

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:17 PM

this hot start for j-ho shouldn’t surprise anyone

he has been one of the best, actually the best first quarter scorer in the nba in recent years

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:17 PM

lets try not to get into foul trouble again.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:17 PM

raps look real soft down low we need to keep there 3 point guys in check or they will shot lights out if you give them a good look

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:18 PM

but we can shoot them 3s too

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:18 PM

raptors good at what they do

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:19 PM

Yay good job, 2 fouls on turkgolu.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:20 PM

ouch 2 on Blatche as well.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:21 PM

yeah got alot of early fouls both teams but got to play some better D#

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:21 PM

This is reminding me of the Pacers game… Make those stops guys.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:22 PM

soory gang internet problems……howard already 11 points… but blatche in foul trouble

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:23 PM

hope miller is ok!

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:23 PM

We should look to go inside more, they have bad interior defense. AND NEED TO GET THOSE STOPS!

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:23 PM

Miller ankle?? I hope he is ok.,..

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:23 PM

foye may not be a great distributor, but i like that he’s not that selfish and only takes open jumpers

like he said, he wants to win, he doesn’t care about numbers

but just like boykins, when he is hitting his shots can be a great player

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:24 PM

both team shooting lights out

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:25 PM

Foye is on tonight well all the wizards are on tonight and the Raps too

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:26 PM

wow that was a nice shot by Jack he got that past a streched out McGee

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:27 PM

Ouch, defense guys.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:28 PM

DANG Raptors looking good lol .

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:28 PM

no D# at all both teams left the D at home

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:29 PM

Will be a tough game.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:29 PM

mcgee hurt tendon righ wrist it is bothering him

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:30 PM

hope he is ok… :/

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:30 PM

foul trouble again, both blatche and howard 2 fouls.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:30 PM

howard two fouls thronton in

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:31 PM

Need to take it to the hoop, our jumpers not falling now.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:31 PM

Filp needs to get the guys to play some good D# at half and we could blow this game out make em work hard at least

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:31 PM

the benches could decide this game

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:32 PM

mcgee hurt wrist last night problem is it is his right wrist

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:34 PM

Is mcgee out of the game??

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:34 PM

yes and tornotn bench is goodd…. they can score

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:34 PM

foye is going to be able to do that every time

calderon gets blown by all the time

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:35 PM

McGee was starting to make smart plays tonight too bad his hurt alittle or we could have seen his best game of the year

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:36 PM

thanks for the shout out

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:36 PM

argh serous foul trouble, singleton with 2

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:37 PM

foye getting to the rim but missing

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:37 PM

earl would give this team fits on Drives with the way we can get to the basket with ease

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:37 PM

gotta make layups

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:38 PM

We arent finishing at the hoop.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:40 PM

thanks glenn way to will it in

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:40 PM

boykins may get 20 tonight

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:42 PM

missed too mnay layups

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:43 PM

So, we are losing the ability to score at the hoop without blatche and mcgee. This might turn into a problem. We gotta keep fighting and play GOOD defense.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:44 PM

wizards taken 11 more shots….

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:46 PM

raptors are getting to the line

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:46 PM

Ack need to make those layups guys.GO up storng for dunks and try to get fouls.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:46 PM

need to get some D# going and feed off that

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:48 PM

the calls are going one way right now

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:50 PM

Ouch freethrows. Need to make those.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:51 PM

i won’t blame boykins for looking for his shot, but i hope he still moves the ball

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:51 PM

Our interior defense is bad without mcgee or singleton :/

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:53 PM

guys are also afraid of getting more foul calls, especially blatche

that’s going to lessen the intensity for some players

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:54 PM

he is trying to drive and kick but he has been getting good looks at it.. ill be back soon guys im dead tired im going to take the game in for a few mins

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:54 PM

Could have used Z in this game :/

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:57 PM

COme on Blatche, energy.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 8:58 PM

quinton ross hitting his shots and playing good d

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:00 PM

internet is terrible here sorry

we count 4 missed wizards layups

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:01 PM

Raptors 14-16 from FT line. Wiz 4-6. We have had 14 more shots though…. Really need to get those in and play D.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:02 PM

weak calls, weak calls for sure

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:02 PM

bad call and that is howard third

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:03 PM

We need to really watch the fouls here. I’d like to see us get inside more as well.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:03 PM

good to, teach the young guys, and hope they listen and don’t take it the wrong way

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:03 PM

WOw, 2nd game in a row with one way calls.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:04 PM

like i said, randy is going to have those nights where he goes off, and he was due for one of those games

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:06 PM

Crazy pass foye. Come on guys.

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:07 PM

It’s hard watching 2 games at once. I’m trying to watch T-mac’s debut and I’m trying to watch the Wizards game at the same time… trying to not lose any action.

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:08 PM

We need to get some stops here. They’re killing us on the offensive end right now.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:08 PM

Ouch…. Come on guys, we are looking like the old wizards now. BALL MOVEMENT AND POINTS IN THE PAINT.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:08 PM

needed that time out….giving up easy buckets

Comment from CobyJMAc
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:10 PM

They’re shooting 66% and have WAY fewer shots, stoping blaming the refs it just makes you sound ignorant

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:12 PM

Ack, not looking good.

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:13 PM

Ouch. We need to really step up with our perimeter D here. This isn’t good for us.

Comment from CobyJMAc
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:13 PM

*ignorant meaning you dont know what you’re talking about. They are 6/6 from 3… if we dont improve our perimter D its OVER…

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:13 PM

turnovers are becoming a big big problem

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:13 PM

difference raptors have taken twice as mnay free throws

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:14 PM

REally going bad now, perimeter defense horrible, and turnovers.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:15 PM

javale’s made some strong moves here

nesterovic can’t stick with him

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:16 PM

We’re only down 57-62. Maybe we could make a run on the lead before the end of the half here.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:17 PM

Just play good defense and unselfish offense. I think we can win this 2nd half.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:18 PM

didn’t see a lot of nick this half, hope to see more of him in the second

even with all the mistakes, this is still a ball game, wiz just have to come out better in the next half and hope foul trouble doesn’t continue to hold them back

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:18 PM

Man, neither side is playing defense.

C’mon new Wiz – show the world in the 2nd half that you’ve changed!

Time to put the lock on like 4th quarter from yesterday.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:19 PM

ALright 7 point deficit. WOrk hard guys. get this 3rd win.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:19 PM

Wiz luckily only down by 7 at half.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:20 PM

We need the wild dogs to be back. Looking too similar to old wizards.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:21 PM

datonypony…..your right….tigthen up on d….jack able to penetrate with ease

Comment from datonypony
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:22 PM

Raptors 6-6 3 point pointers. Can’t let this continue.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:25 PM

time to stop IL MAGO

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:25 PM

getting beat happens, but when the big men have 2-3 fouls that’s when the help is hesitant

Comment from dlts20
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:27 PM

Man I hate Toronto. They are always one of the best shooting teams in the league so its definitely not a fluke but every time they play us they never miss at all. That is so frustraing. Our D may not be elite but they still even make the tough ones. Evans is the worst FT shooter in the league and I bet he shoots like 85% against us. Every time we play them he makes almost all his FT’s.

One problem I do have right now is that I think Flip is switching too much on D. We’re switching on every pick and we always end up with a big on a small or vice versa. Why keep doing that when they keep killing us with it? Dont switch anymore

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:30 PM

@ dlts20

it’s because they are the international team. so many euros that are good shooters

Comment from dlts20
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:33 PM

I know Fusion but it sucks for us, lol

Also, Im one of those guys who never cry about the refs but I think weve been hammered alot with no calls and you they are getting alot of calls

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:34 PM

raptors 20-7 at home

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:38 PM

I like the hustle I’m seeing from McGee to start out the half. We need to close the gap here in this quarter, and, hopefully take the lead here.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:39 PM

howard 4 fouls

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:39 PM

oh my god these foul calls are soft

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:39 PM

That’s Juan Howard’s 4th personal? We should sit him out until the 4th quarter. He really ought to be more careful out there.

These fouls are killing us.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:42 PM

wiz really need 2 other scoring options to stay with raps now that josh is sitting.

maybe nick can get hot?

maybe thornton can get some energy instead of adrenaline?

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:42 PM

players need to keep looking for javale, if he is near the rim it will be a stuff

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:43 PM

i hope foye-boi doesn’t go screen-n-chuck. game is still very winnable. no need to play selfish now.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:45 PM

flip is playing dangerous with howard on the floor.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:46 PM

great start to the third

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:46 PM

yes – 1 pt game. timeout

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:46 PM

blatche with the flush. crowd is stunned.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:48 PM

last night, the newbies bailed out blatche in 2nd half.

tonight, blatche needs to bail out his new teammates. he can’t fade.

Comment from weswalk
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:48 PM

McGee looks as though he needs to rest. I would like to see Singleton ans his energy. Might be time for a Thornton sighting also.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:48 PM

that the way wizards 14-9 fast break points

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:50 PM

good d by blatche

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:51 PM

@ Weswalk, I don’t think we need to change our lineup just yet. Maybe after we start cooling off a bit.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:51 PM

the canadian broadcast just said that the raps are going to push the pace because they sense the wiz getting tired.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:52 PM

the raps can’t stop the interior. i love this!

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:53 PM

cmon foye – like i said, no screen-n-chuck!

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:54 PM

foye taking the charge

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:54 PM

what a screen by amir johnson – offensive foul!

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:56 PM

wiz dominating in 2nd chance points

19 to 3

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:57 PM

great d

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:58 PM

I really like the hustle from the Wizards D! This is a truly different team from what we’re used to seeing. Usually the Wizards have somewhat of a tendencies to break down in the 3rd quarter and stop trying. But we’re not seeing that tonight.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:58 PM

blatche is playing with so much confidence

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:58 PM

blacthe taking chare

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:58 PM

hedo is hurt; left knee, on the offensive charge

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 9:59 PM

* Wizards players.

I hope Turkoglu is okay there. He’s a good player and I don’t want him hurt too badly.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:00 PM

whoa @ singleton’s putback

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:00 PM

lol @ singleton showing emotion after the dunk – no foul; and then antoine wright making a layup and screaming and getting a T

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:00 PM

i’ll take the technical, but i don’t have a problem with what wright did

that was just competition

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:01 PM

lol @ reggie evans flopping. cmon, this guy doesn’t fall

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:01 PM

uh oh, when i fighter sees his own blood…

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:02 PM

blatche is bleeding a lot

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:03 PM

better defnse in third

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:05 PM

what a nice 3rd quarter.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:05 PM

howard, young, and boykins all have fresh legs right now going into the fourth, bad news for the raptors

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:06 PM

howard’s 4 fouls concerns me – can’t be as aggressive as he likes to play though

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:07 PM

wiz’s d didn’t let bargnani score at all in the 3rd

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:08 PM

what an unreal pass by fabricio

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:08 PM

That was a great pass by Oberto.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:10 PM

boykins will dominate calderon

i have been waiting for this matchup

come on fourth quarter boykins, do your thang

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:12 PM

What a shot by Josh Howard! Come on Wizards! We can close this out here…

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:13 PM

lol @ evans falling down again. stop flopping you boulder man

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:13 PM

here we go, keep this momentum going

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:14 PM

i dont think raps fans like the wiz. last time, caron made the game winner.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:16 PM

boykins is never stopped

Comment from weswalk
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:17 PM

Maybe there is a spot on next year’s team for the little big man.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:17 PM

hedo’s back – not seriously hurt

weems is back too

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:20 PM

getting to the line could easily win this game, we need people to keep doing it

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:21 PM

I’d like to see the Wizards resign Earl Boykins… the fourth quarter Earl has come through for us many times this year.

I hope we can close out this game though. It would really be nice to close this game out.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:21 PM

lol @ toronto fans doing the wave

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:22 PM

keep drawing fouls, after a while, they will be over the limit

buck said 4th team foul, one more and it’s curtains imo

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:25 PM

Ouch. We have to capitalize on those turnovers.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:27 PM

good decision to take out miller, he’s not doing well

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:27 PM

Like I said, we need to capitalize on turnovers. This might bight us in the back here. I hope it doesn’t but we have to be more careful here.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:29 PM

no one can stop jarret jack

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:29 PM

a couple of turnovers, a missed shot, and some fts later and this game is closer than we wanted it to get back to

someone is going to have to hit some shots, and the team is going to have to get some stops

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:29 PM

raptors have gone small.. and we just can’t seem to stop jakc from penetrating

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:31 PM

WE NEED GUARDS BAD…Our guards go east-west instead of north-south….ugggggggghhhhhhhh

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:31 PM

the raps/wiz likes to go into OT. this is shaping up to that endpoint.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:33 PM

i really don’t like boykins on jack

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:34 PM

Just when we didn’t need a foul. Now they have the lead. We need to turn up the pressure up a notch here.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:35 PM

`13-0 raptor run. poor.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:35 PM

complete meltdown, but still 2 minutes left

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:38 PM

Ouch. We need to stop Turkoglu and Jack. Come on… we can still do it. We still have time.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:39 PM

finally, now get a stop

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:39 PM

it’s not the players – its the crowd. take the crowd out and the wiz can win this.

Comment from weswalk
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:39 PM

Flip should have subbed for Boykins, when they needed to get some D.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:40 PM

i agree wiz fusion, this crowd is crazy

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:41 PM

If only Blatche made that layup… come on. Now we need D here. This isn’t too good for us.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:41 PM

that was so close to going in

good defensive possession, now gotta get a stop and a rebound

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:42 PM

i really thought blatche was trying to suck jack in and kick the ball out to miller for the 3. then he went and almost made the reverse layup. good play though even no basket.

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:42 PM

that was a long 5 seconds, but no rebound, in a real tough spot now

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:42 PM

WHY wasn’t mcgee in there to hit the boards

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:42 PM

Ouch. it would have really been nice to get the rebound on that missed shot. It’s probably going to be a 2 possession game now.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:43 PM

turkoglu usually hiurts with a big shot… that time big rebound

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:47 PM

man, the wiz had this game and let it slip away

time to move on and rebound next game

Comment from Gilfanatic
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:50 PM

Aaaah. Oh well we lost. Maybe we can pick up a win next time. I was hoping to get 3 wins in a row. There were some things we could have done differently. Hopefully they’ll learn from this the next game.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:50 PM

ridiculous that bargnani turned into dwight howard and had 4 straight blocks when the wiz were trying to buy a basket.

i don’t know why bosh is cheering so bad. he’ll be wizard (that’s my dream lol).

Comment from gray16
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:50 PM

i’m not going to get on him too bad, but flip really should’ve put mcgee back in at least one more time

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:52 PM

hedo had 2 points at halftime and then ended with 16 plus a bunch of plays that killed the wiz.

that’s ridiculous as well.

Comment from DJ-WizardsRadio
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:52 PM

1 800 636 1067 for post game

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 10:57 PM

any half-way decent coach will do just what Toronto did to win the game. CRUNCH-TIME means take it to earl and win the game. Earl is good for the first three and a half quarters, as long as the opposing team doesn’t attack before then. After that, game over. Not to mention that our guards can’t penetrate and dish, BUT they will shoot jumpers (doesn’t work in crunch time).

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:22 PM

We simply can not afford to be depending on a vertically-challenged NBA point guard who can only dribble around trying to see someone to pass to, or trying to get open for his own shot, to be running the offense for us in crunch time. Nor should we have to rely on a shoot-first point guard. We have what we have for now, but let’s get a real point guard in the off-season.

Mike Miller certainly looks like he is energetic, but hustle alone will not get it done at this level. Mike is a GREAT shooter; Mike is a horrible ball-handler; Mike is a horrible passer. Mike should not be in the game unless we have him positioned on AB’s side of the court to relieve the double-team and pop the 3-pointers. All that he should be allowed to do on offense is SHOOT. Hello Coach!!!!

D-Ray (of hope) Blatche was terrific in the second half and almost pulled it out for the Wizards. This is a game that we should have won. I thought that Singleton and Thornton looked a little flat (tired?). Now we have to get it together for the Bulls. I had really thought that we could put a 7-0 run together after next week, but 6-1 will do.

It is still MUCH MORE exciting to watch the new Wizards that the old, wait-until-I-drag-my-butt-down-the-court-before-you-start-the-offense Wizards of last week.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:24 PM

substitute “than” for “that” above

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:29 PM

When all is said and done, I’ll still pay the price of admission to see this Gang of Hustlers play. I wouldn’t renew for even one game to see the last-week’s Wizards play.

Comment from weswalk
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:32 PM

Unless we get lucky in the draft (Wall) find a diamond in the rough, or trade for one, don’t know where an outstanding PG will come from. Just checked the 2010 unrestricted PGs, and only Felton appears to be close to what we need.

T. J. Ford (player option) Blake, Ridnour and Duhon, with Blake my first choice, are other possibilities.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:35 PM

I think that the Wizards (what a goofy name…we haven’t performed any magic since we got that name), should be renamed the “Hustlers”. And, no player would be allowed to play for the team if the fans felt that he was “dogging it”.

Comment from Wizards4Life
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:36 PM

i still liked this game it was close we should have won but the foul trouble and the lack of good gard play put us in a bad spot.. i agree that this was still a fun game to watch we might get that 3rd win very soon

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:37 PM

@Weswalk – I like Blake. He is a nice ball-handler; looks to pass first; but, can hit the open shot. I’d take him over Earl in the crunch.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:37 PM

OKC BABY

You can get Tracy McGrady, Dick Tracy, Spencer Tracy….it DON’T MATTER, CUZ NONE OF THE NAMES SOUNDS LIKE

KEEEVVVVIIIIN
DUUUURRRANNT…LOL

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:38 PM

Question:

Why do you guys get so attached to local products? Like Steve Blake, etc.?

He’s not even locally born (he’s from Florida) – he just went to Oak Hill for high school and Maryland for college.

At the pro level, I can’t be bias – I want the best available. If Blake, for example, is the best available for what the Wiz can get, then sure, I want him. If there’s another guy that’s better but unknown in these parts – I want that guy instead.

Comment from dlts20
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:39 PM

Man that L sucked so bad. We are not the Cavs but lets hope that this is like the Cavs when they won a couple in a row, then had a good size lead late at Utah but managed to lose at the end, yet they still won the next 13 in a row. By that I mean lets not make this fully send us into the tank. We still are capable of winning some of if not all of these upcoming home games. Even if we do manage to lose some, I want us to keep looking like this team. The only thing that upset me in this game was that Flip didnt go back to McGee at all and Howard was too much of a hog this game. It almost looked like he was thinking that he got traded to the worst team in the league, so now he’s the star, and he’s going to try to play like MJ because the team is built around him and needs him to score 40 to win. He better not do that again but other then that he is good

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:39 PM

@dcbutler357 – I like OKC too, but you sound like you are abandoning the WIz and are moving to the dark side my friend.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:40 PM

That was harsh…the real dark side is the land of the Cavs.

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:42 PM

@dlts20 – Word!

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:44 PM

@ dcbutler

I think your cheers for the OKC Thunder is better done here

http://www.dailythunder.com

Comment from ChenierFan
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:44 PM

The Raptors ran the same pick & role play time after time with Jack at the end of the game and the Wiz had no answer. Perhaps, it would be best to just switch the big man out on the guard rather than trying to switch back and allow penetration.

Mike M. was a turnover machine tonight. Maybe the added burden of being team captain is weighing heavily on his mind.

Andray was The Boss again tonight. He is on a great run. The Wiz stopped working their offense through him until it was too late.

The Wiz need to use Howard on the pick and roll and have him take it to the hoop.

What is the story with Zydrunas? Does this guy want to play or not? We could have used him tonight.

It is so nice to have backup guards who can shoot a bit.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:50 PM

@Getabig,

Naw, not abandoning, just don’t feel like blogging during the games as much. l like our new look, but as I’ve been saying, our guards are not the answer. This game, I agree with all your comments. Flip ran back to miller too quick and let their bigs dominate the last portion of the game with no mcgee. And did he ever take Boykins off of their penetrating guard? I now see why Flip couldn’t win a championship…..if z and mike james do a buyout, can we get a point guard (or two)?

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:52 PM

@wiz_fusion

LOL….

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 20, 2010 at 11:55 PM

I personally don’t care to see Z in a Wizards uniform. He doesn’t want to be here and I don’t want him here. His buyout is complicated – that’s where the stalling is at.

As talented as Josh Howard is, I hope tonight’s game showcased how he really is as a player. His famous “5 for 14″ nights shows up way too much for an all-star caliber player. It is another reason why I think he’s a 30 game rental only.

Boykins is not going to get re-signed. Sorry to burst your bubble on that.

The more I see Foye now without the “Big 2″ starting alongside him, I am unsure if he’ll be here next season.

Personally, I only want these guys back for next season
– Arenas (G)
– Blatche (F/C)
– Foye (G)
– McGee (C)
– Singleton (F)
– Thornton (F)
– Young (G)

Get Bosh and Roger Mason in free agency. Draft whoever that leaves the Kentucky Wildcats program early (Wall or Cousins).

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:01 AM

Let’s think about this – would you pay money to see this starting 5 for the Wiz? And, do you think this group can make the playoffs in the East?

Arenas
Foye
Thornton
Blatche
Bosh

+ these 3 bench guys to form “Flip’s Great 8″ rotation

McGee
Singleton
Mason Jr./Young (push)

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:02 AM

Leave Mason where-ever he lands….

Look through out the colleges, D-League, free agency before deciding who we go after. BUT before we go after or research any players, GET SOMEONE THAT KNOWS HOW TO SEE/PICK TALENT TO DO THE JOB!!!!!!!!!!!!

STOP HOOKING UP YOUR FRIENDS ERNIE!!!!!!!!

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:04 AM

The Thornton, Blatche, Bosh frontcourt is sick on paper! A pretty good balance of offense and defense.

Blatche may be screwed again on shooting less if Bosh (and Arenas) is here. That’s the big risk.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:07 AM

I wonder why yall got negative on Roger Mason now. In addition to his 3pt shooting, we’ve seen that he can also bring up the ball and run some offense. I think he’ll be as good of an addition with Flip’s system as he did in Eddie Jordan’s system.

Comment from dlts20
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:08 AM

The other thing I forgot to add that go me upset was us going away from Blatche in the 4th. He was the guy who had it going but in the middle part of the 4th, everyone else was taking all the shots. When we were up by 9, we shouldve ran the Offense through Blatche. We do that and we win this game. Instead we start doing it late after we fall behind and then its too late. He wouldve gotten a great look every time or a great look for someone else

Comment from dlts20
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:18 AM

Im in the minority but I dont want Bosh. I actually dont fully trust Bosh, Amare, or Boozer but I would take the other 2 over Bosh even with the injuries. The reason being is that Ive seen alot of Bosh on Toronto, in the Olympics, and in the All Star game and he’s the same guy all the time and that guy is a glorified Antwan Jamison. He’s just better because he’s bigger and a lefty which makes him harder to stop. I call him Jamison though because I think he is just a stat guy who puts up meaningless numbers like AJ. When he plays it looks like its just all about him.

He’s a black hole. If he gets it then its going up and he shoots it without hesitation from anywhere just like AJ. I just dont see him making his teammates better. If he comes here it will be even worst. He will try to score 30 every night and wont pass unless he is truly forced to. Thats why I love Blatche because he can score but he also loves to pass and he plays D. Give me Boozer because I think he’s more solid all around. Id take Boozer as the better fit for our team & roster over Bosh & Amare

Comment from dlts20
Time February 21, 2010 at 12:57 AM

I was on the Raps board and before the game they felt ok about Blatche but after the game they all seemed to think that he was the 2nd coming or something, lol

He’s just a different player when he starts, gets the minutes, gets to play his natural spot, and gets touches. He doesnt get any of that with AJ there and he’s more likely to float on the perimiter but when he’s the man like this he mixes it up perfectly with the inside/outside game and again, he has no problems passing the rock. In these 3 starts he’s getting 25 & 10 and he’s still only playing 32mpg. Thats alot for him but alot of star bigs play close to 40.

What also makes it even more impressive is he’s doing it against very good comp. The 1st game was against Big Al & Love, then against K-Mart & Nene, this game against Bargs. Its not like fluke stuff where he’s dominating scrubs or smaller men. Its very legit

Comment from datonypony
Time February 21, 2010 at 3:39 AM

Well, we had this one in the bag. Unfortunate. Can’t dwell on it however. I think our need for a real PG was really apparent tonight :/

Comment from datonypony
Time February 21, 2010 at 3:57 AM

Haywood is becoming a fan favourite in Dallas with his defense and strong dunks. Good to see that the trade has worked out. Caron is driving to the basket and playing good defense along with shawn marion. Caron and Marion forming a deadly wing combo.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 8:47 AM

Wiz_fusion,

Mason is a two guard that can help out at the point, we don’t need another one of those. We have enough of that.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 8:54 AM

Poor NY, I think he is just about done. He is not consistent yet. I hope he gets it together, his shooting could help this team, but he also has to add passing to his repertoire on a consistent basis.

Comment from neal
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:06 AM

Wizards_fusion, don’t forget Ross for next year. He has a player’s option which he will undoubtedly exercise.

The big question in my mind is how Arenas will fit in with this bunch. He’d better be prepared to be just one member of a team. Actually, it looked (and sounded) to me like he was making more of an effort to fit into Saunders’s system than either Jamison or Butler. Then he brought his arsenal to work.

I’m still wondering what happened between James and the Wiz. I liked him as a 3rd pg, but at the minimum salary.

Comment from neal
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:53 AM

The Wiz will draft either a PG or a C with their first pick. Which should it be? In my mind it should be a PG to develop while backing up to Arenas. Then get a veteran C to share time with McGee.

Anyone heard anything about our ownership situation?

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 21, 2010 at 2:05 PM

Listening to the pre-game show for the Cav’s/Magic game today and I believe that I just heard AJ’s excuse for the 0/12 (including two airballs) in his debut with the Cavs. I heard that he said that he wasn’t used to getting such open shots (with the Wizards). Class act Jamison???

I guess he just jacked up 20+ shots a game with someone in his face when he should have been passing to someone who was open. Doesn’t surprise me at all. The guy doesn’t even average 2 assists per game for his career. If LeBronze gives AJ the ball, LeBronze isn’t getting it back. The “king” will grow weary of that real fast.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 3:02 PM

@ neal:

Unless the Wiz get the number one pick, which should be John Wall, I’d say draft his teammate Cousins, a legitimate center. The team still got a pretty good PG dangling on the roster.

@ GABBO;

Jamison is real good with the media, as we all know. I wouldn’t put much on what he said. His response sounded like he was trying to be funny – but I guess not everyone took it that way.

AJ knows that if he doesn’t say what he said, LBJ won’t pass him the ball during crunchtime because we all know the Cavs run the Lebroncentric offense and nothing else in playoffs.

Comment from ChenierFan
Time February 21, 2010 at 3:57 PM

I saw some of the Cav’s game with the Magic today and the Cav’s coach is using Jamison exactly as the Wiz should have been using him the past two years – as the sixth man and subbing him out for defensive purposes. Why the Wiz did not do this is beyond me. I’m guessing that his relationship with Abe made it difficult for him to be anything less than in a starring role. But the Cav’s want to win and not just placate players – except maybe James. James, of course, wins games by himself many times, so if you are going to placate a player that would be the type to do it. How unfortunate that Hickson will rot in the process.

Looking forward to tomorrow’s game. The Bulls are in for a serious beating tomorrow night.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 4:00 PM

All I can say is that I wish the previous wiz luck. If they get a ring, they get a ring. If they don’t, they don’t. I’m just glad we are past the “big three” time frame and can move on to the next chapter. Just like their windo of opportunity is closing, so has their margin of error, for not producing on a championship level. To whom much is given, much is expected. Now if they don’t produce, they will go from being the blamers, to the blamee. Karma

Comment from neal
Time February 21, 2010 at 4:10 PM

Wizards_fusion, do you think either McGee or Cousins is really ready to be our starting center? Which one?

Regarding Roger Mason, I presume he’ll get a better offer than coming back to the Wiz. And I don’t think EG would want to acknowledge his mistake anyway. But then, I suppose the odds are only 50-50 at best that EG will be here when next year’s decisions are made.

Comment from weswalk
Time February 21, 2010 at 5:05 PM

I always felt we gave up way to much to get Foye (RFA) and Miller (FA) two possible rent a players. In hindsight the fifth pick would have given an opportunity at Curry, Jennings, Rubio, Flynn. While none maybe Wall, even though what I have seen of Curry, I love, it would certainly put us in a better place than we currently sit.

While I would love to place it all at the foot of EG, I feel Mr. Pollin’s dream of another championship was a major factor in recent persnnel moves.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 5:33 PM

@ Neal

Very good question. My answer depends on the state of the Wizards.

If the Wiz are going to be in rebuilding mode (for reals) for the next 2-3 seasons, then the answer is IT DOESN’T MATTER. Both guys will get better by learning on the job and playing at least 20 minutes.

If the Wiz, for some reason, decide to use all the freed up monies and go for broke again for another real chance at the playoffs next season, then I would say McGee. I think JaVale, even though he’s been benched a lot, has gone through Flip’s system longer and will know more by default.

Comment from suzie-qwiz
Time February 21, 2010 at 5:38 PM

Can the Wizards get players from the D-League? If so, how does that work?

Comment from tyrone2000
Time February 21, 2010 at 6:06 PM

Sorry fellow bloggers, I still do not care for A Blatche’s game as a starting power forward, but I am still truly a big time Bullets/Wizards fan since about 1975. Just because I do not agree with most of you concerning Blatche does not equal tyrone knows nothing about this game and players. I missed a lot of games in the 80′s and early 90′s due to my military service.

Comment from tyrone2000
Time February 21, 2010 at 6:09 PM

Players tend to be more athletic and the three point shot has changed the game along with rule changes.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 6:20 PM

@Tyrone

Don’t sweat the small stuff, I’ve been told the same thing a few times, keep on blogging. I’m in your corner, but I’m still going to make fun of your remarks when they don’t make sense

Like the one about AB…are you taking into account the last three games? If I only had the last three games to “analyze”, I would say that he is waaaaaaaaaayyyyy better than AJ…IMO.

Comment from neal
Time February 21, 2010 at 7:10 PM

Knowledge is irrelevant on this blog anyway. Lack of it never keeps me from sounding off, for instance.

A few players in the D-league are under contract to NBA teams. Any other can be signed by an NBA team at any time, if it has a roster spot.

I would rather have a veteran and a young guy in the rotation at each position, rather than two young guys. That way the young guy can learn from the veteran. Also, I think that there’s a danger that a young guy’s confidence could suffer permanently if he makes a lot of mistakes as a rookie starter.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 7:36 PM

@Neal,

That’s true, since we think we have a point in Foye, a young player wouldn’t get the proper play right now anyway……UNLESS…..

Comment from tyrone2000
Time February 21, 2010 at 7:59 PM

Wizards actually list AB as a center!? I guess I don’t know to much about AB…

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 8:39 PM

LOL – Nets have had a 10 point lead on the Grizzlies for most of the game. Can they win another one?

I’ve watched the LeBron highlights 3x now on ESPN. I see LeBron going 1 on 5 to the hoop and both Jamison and Mo Williams were wide open from the perimeter. What did LeBron do? He kept the ball. I thought how LeBron played is the reason why the Cavs went down in 5 games last postseason against the Magic in ECF. All eyez are on LeBron, so he better expect the team defense on him and him only.

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:14 PM

YAHOO SPORTS IS REPORTING THAT

JAVALE MCGEE IS INJURED

SPRAINED RIGHT WRIST

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:48 PM

Couldn’t watch last night’s game, alas — both net and cable down where I was in Baltimore. Very disappointed.

Looks like we just ran out of gas at the end of the game, which is not *so* surprising after a high energy game and a plane ride.

Mike had a bad game — 8 turnovers! But someone above said he isn’t a good passer, and in general that’s not true. He gets a lot of assists, which usually indicates the opposite.

What I do think, however, is that Mike can’t be a 30 minute a game player game after game any more. He’s 30, and he was never a premier athlete. As a 20 minute a game player, I love him — and I hope he’s back next year. Here or elsewhere, that’s what he is going to be the last few years of his career.

Our guard play, especially point guard, is very sub-par with this crew, obviously. You guys are raising good questions about whom we might be able to get next year. The draft can’t be the answer. Whether Wall turns out to be terrific or not, it’s a long shot for him to be good right away.

I’d *love* to get Ty Lawson away from Denver — he is one of the top rookies — but I think they know what they’ve got. In any case, w/ as few players as we have under contract for next year, if we acquire someone via trade we just shift the problem to another position!

By far the best looking player in the draft, to me at least, is Cousins. He is putting up terrific numbers so far this year. Not quite at the Blake Griffin or DeJuan Blair level, but pretty close.

(bad news about javale — hope he bounces back asap)

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:49 PM

He was wearing a bandage/wrist brace during the game last night….

Now for the real news:

OKC BABY

Westbrook triple double (22pts/10 boards/14 assists)
Durant 28 games in a row with 25 pts or more only second to MJ (Since 1986)

9 wins in a row

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:54 PM

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=Al2dWzMpAV9dLtvnmobCf8c5nYcB?slug=ys-ilgauskasbuyout022110&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 10:56 PM

ROFL….The NBA may not let him go back to the cavs because they felt it was pre-arranged deal….and stern isn’t cutting any slack this year (image of nba)….ROFL….

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:03 PM

Z can always join the Lakers and win a ring

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:05 PM

That would be funny….atnd they beat Cleveland to do it….

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:06 PM

why would you disrupt a 13 game winning streak?

Comment from wizards_fusion
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:06 PM

“We’re getting better,” said fifth-year forward Andray Blatche, who’s averaging 9.8 points on the season but 25.0 in his last three games since becoming a starter. “I like our attitude, I like our hustle. We’re going to be a great team.”

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:07 PM

Well, he learned something from Jamison….LOL…

Comment from weswalk
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:13 PM

Boy I wish we had taken Curry. 29 pts. vs hawks, last nine games also averaging nine assists per game.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:15 PM

Looking at last year’s draft, Ty Lawson and Eric Maynor went 18th and 20th in the draft and are performing quite well.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:20 PM

I hope we have someone new selecting players next year….

Comment from neal
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:21 PM

Only Boykins gets more assists per minute played than Miller. Unfortunately, only Oberto and Blatche have more TO’s per minute played than Miller. To me the critical stat is assists/TO. Only Ross and Boykins do better.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:26 PM

oh well, the season is almost over. I guess we have to ride this one out….

Comment from datonypony
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:29 PM

Oh man we really need a PG. I would like a vet and a young guy at the PG position.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:30 PM

Hmm, I wonder though, if Arenas is still with the Wiz next season. I wouldn’t mind having Arenas run PG but his new role in the team will have to be help team first.

Comment from datonypony
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:38 PM

To get Wall or Cousins we need to do worse. Is this the season where we have to lose games purposely??

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:39 PM

No matter what happens with arenas, we still need a point guard.

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:41 PM

The worst team doesn’t necessarily mean that you automatically get a #1 pick. It would be nice to get wall, but a PG that knows his role is good enought. Big name doesn’t necessarily guarantee success.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:50 PM

Wall is currently projected as the #1 pick. NJ would seem to have that locked up.

Draftexpress currently projects Cousins going #4 to… us!!

Comment from Gotabigboyoffense
Time February 21, 2010 at 11:58 PM

We’re already talking about the next draft!!!!!!!!!! This season isn’t over. Never mind next year. Support this year’s team. I hate that BS speculation about who we might get and who is available ,and who is this and who is that, and if we get this player or that player what might the result be. This isn’t a fantasy basketball blog. The game is played on the court!

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 22, 2010 at 12:45 AM

Getabig, don’t participate…..

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 22, 2010 at 12:47 AM

ROFL…The way NJ’s luck is running they could have 999 ping pong balls out of 1000 and still won’t get the 1st pick…LOL…

Comment from dcbutler357
Time February 22, 2010 at 12:51 AM

If New Jersey were to get the 1st pick, and get wall, would that make Devin Harris expendable?

Comment from Phemy
Time February 22, 2010 at 2:20 AM

yeah, I’m pretty sure they will look to trade Devin Harris if they get John Wall!

Man, Steph Curry is playing awesome lately. When was he picked? 6th? …. :/

Any truth to Javale being hurt? Man that would suck, I don’t want Fab to get many minutes…

greetz

Comment from datonypony
Time February 22, 2010 at 3:03 AM

Javale is hurt, Glenn confirmed it yesterday.

But yeah, I bet the nets won’t get the lottery pick.

Be nice to get a good C or a PG.

Comment from Tom Mandel
Time February 22, 2010 at 8:43 AM

Gotabig — you are right; just when we’re fun again (win or lose), lets not turn away from the team, games and current players!

But *while* doing that, it’s hard not to speculate some on Wizards of the future! At least a little bit!