Comparing the Warriors to the Southeast Division
By Mike Dill
Apr 9, 2013; New York, NY, USA; Washington Wizards point guard John Wall (2) advances the ball during the third quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Knicks won 120-99. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Wizards
Prediction: 1-1
The Wizards are going to surprise some people this season. I think they are good enough to steal a game from the Warriors. The hype surrounding John Wall seems to have died down lately. Everyone is focusing on young players like Kyrie Irving or Damian Lillard. This season, Wall is looking to send a reminder to everyone who forgot about him.
When people look at young point guards, they tend to focus on offense and nothing else. Wall has a great offensive game, but he also is a great defender. Irving, Lillard, Curry, Rubio – none of those guys can defend like Wall can. In head to hear matchups, Wall will be able to make it tough for opposing point guards.
Wall also showed a tremendous ability to get to the free throw line last season. Curry could learn a few pointers from him in that aspect. Getting opponents in foul trouble will help you win games. James Harden, Kevin Durant, and Kobe Bryant are all respected talents in the league and they all know how to get to the line.
The young talent – especially Wall – is going to win games for the Wizards. Players like Nene and Okafor are going to serve as damage control. They have the size and experience to slow other teams down at the rim. The problem there is that Nene is getting a bit old and Okafor has been on a steady decline since his rookie season. If they can remain effective, the Wizards will surprise people.