Wizards Cold Shooting Leads to Blowout Loss Versus Heat

By The USS Blogger

If there was a time where you wanted to cancel your Verizon service, tonight was the night as the Washington Wizards fell at home to the Miami Heat 97 - 75. You could hear a pin drop at Verizon Center as the Wizards gave one of their more uninspiring efforts of the 2015-2016 season and as a matter of fact, the loudest ovation of the night was in recognition of hip hop recording artist Wale, who was in attendance at the game.

The Wizards recorded the seconded lowest point total in a quarter this season with a mere seven second quarter points and for the game shot a woeful 34% from the field. The Wizards, who head coach Randy Wittman describes as a perimeter team, were 4 out of 29 on three pointers and when asked about the over reliance on perimeter shots Wittman gave an uninspiring answer of “that’s who we are, who do you want me to post up?”. Honestly, his response, as baffling as it was stifled me a bit. However, the answer is coach Wittman DRIVE THE BALL. One could argue that Miami Heat starting center Hassan Whiteside’s six blocks in large part forced the Wizards into jump shots, however Washington at times displayed an ability to get to the rim including guard Ramon Sessions who missed several shots at the basket.

From a positive perspective, the Wizards are missing key personnel, most notably shooting guard Bradley Beal who was sorely missed tonight as his shooting ability was desperately needed. However, whether it’s cold shooting or injuries that are causing the team to struggle, I believe coaches must make the proper adjustments which didn’t happen in this game. Many have questioned the decision making of coach Wittman and tonight I felt as though he and the team threw in the towel a bit early as star guard John Wall sat out most of the fourth quarter. With the game seemingly out of reach, some will agree to rest Wall, but when a team is below .500 and out of playoff contention, you again may want to rethink your game strategies.

The Wizards just a few weeks ago defeated the Miami Heat in Miami and days prior to that victory the Wizards defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers who will be in town on this upcoming Wednesday. The Heat made adjustments and it paid off as evidenced by tonight’s thumping. Question now is, will the Cavs do the same or will Randy Wittman alter his game plan and lead his team to a victory? Time will tell, but a sense of urgency needs to set in for this Wizards team quickly.

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Ray Rogers interviewing Dwyane Wade.