The Washington Wizards have shown the entire league that they can put the ball in the hole on a consistent basis. However, they have also shown that they are totally clueless when it comes to playing defense. For the Wizards to advance to the next level, they may want to join Dorothy and the gang to go see the “Wizard” and get some defense. Here is my preview on the Wizards for the upcoming 2006-07 season.
All I’m going to say about point guard, Gilbert Arenas is that, over the past two seasons, and more specifically, last season, he has taken his game to an entirely different level and is now undeniably one of the league’s best players. I also like the fact that Arenas doesn’t shy away from the spotlight. The Wizards have youngster, Donnell Taylor penciled in as the backup to Arenas, which could end up being a problem for Washington if he isn’t ready for prime time.
You would think the combination of shooting guards, DeShawn Stevenson and veteran backup, Antonio Daniels, would be a formidable pairing that could compete with almost any two-guard tandem in the league. However, I am not sure if either of these players has what it takes to help the Wizards reach the next level. While both are solid players, neither has fulfilled their respective potential. Remember, both of these guys were high first round draft picks who have never been able to achieve the expectations that their athleticism says they should have easily been able to reach.
Small forward, Caron Butler, is an all-star player waiting to bust out of his shell and is only another step or two away. If Butler can stay healthy, I expect a breakout season for him this year. His contributions, which are already very good, would help the Wizards immensely if he can take on even more responsibility at the offensive end. Butler averaged nearly 18 points per game last season and should be able to reach 20 per in 2006-07. Jarvis Hayes, another player with plenty of athleticism, will back up Butler and should help the Wizards with his young legs and hustle.
Antwan Jamison may not be the prototypical power forward, but he continuously seems to be able to get the job done – at least at the offensive end of the floor. Once again, for the Wizards to enter the class of the elite, they are going to have to learn to play some defense. Which means Jamison’s ‘ole style of defense is going to have to go. Unfortunately, the Wizards have another player who plays matador-like defense backing up Jamison (Darius Songaila).
I like center, Brendan Haywood, but I have to admit that it seems like every time this potential impact player takes one step forward, he quickly follows that up with two steps backwards. If the Wizards are waiting for him to turn into Wilt Chamberlain overnight, guess what people? It ain’t gonna’ happen. Haywood is a legitimate seven-footer, so I guess that helps, but I just keep expecting more out of him and I’m sure the Wizards and head coach, Eddie Jordan do too. Etan Thomas, Calvin Booth and Peter John Ramos are the backups … whoopee.
Prediction:
I’m don’t think the Wizards have improved much this offseason while other teams in their conference have. I think it’s quite possible that last season’s 42-40 record might be the ceiling for this team until they make at least one or two more additions – and learn how to play some defense. I’m thinking 42 wins sound just about right again for Washington.
