Washington Wizards (29-39) vs Charlotte Hornets (30-37)
When: Friday, March 15th at 7p.m.
Where: Capital One Arena in Washington D.C.
TV: NBC Sports Washington, FSSE-CHA/ Radio: 1500 AM
Injury
Wizards: Dwight Howard (Day to Day/ Back), John Wall (Out for the season/ Haglund’s deformity and chronic Achilles tendon injury), Sam Dekker (Day to Day/ Back)
Hornets: Nicolas Batum (Day to Day/ Eye), Michael Kidd-Gilchrist (Day to day/ Knee), Marvin Williams (Day to Day/ Ilness), Cody Zeller ( Day to Day/ Knee)
Wizards -
114.4 - points per game
116.8 - points against
47.0 - Field goal %
Hornets -
110.8 - points per game
111.8 - points against
44.9 - field goal %
Keep an eye on:
Kemba Walker: Self Explanatory!!!! If by this point in the season you don’t understand why, you’re a lost cause.
Defend without fouling: Washington has had its struggles defending throughout the season although they’ve been more consistent during this home win streak. Against the Hornets they must continue that consistency of playing good defense, yet, without fouling. In a win over the Kings, Washington saw Sacramento take 32 free throws, making 24. In a win against Orlando, they were much better, only seeing the Magic get nine attempts for the game. A repeat of the Magic result is ideal against Charlotte. The Hornets rank sixth in the NBA in free throw percentage, shooting 79% from the charity stripe. They don’t get to the line often, however when they do, they make opponents pay. This is something Washington should be cognizant of all game.
Execute EFFICIENTLY: The Wizards were great taking care of the ball in a win over Orlando, only turning it over nine times. On the season, Washington averages 14 turnovers which is 18th in the NBA. Against Charlotte you can’t turn the ball over and give them opportunities for easy points, due to a simple fact, you won’t get a chance to the return the favor. The Hornets rank second in the NBA in turnovers, only turning it over a little over 12 a game. They won’t beat themselves. Washington has to execute well on offense and defense to get a win and remain in the playoff mix.
