The NBA is back!
However, Wizards fans will be anxiously waiting for Tuesday night when Washington host the Philadelphia 76ers in their season opener.
Now that the NBA season is finally here, here are 5 things you should know about the Washington Wizards.
<>< p=""> 1. John Wall<>
As a multiple repeat Eastern Conference Player of the week, John Wall has to play well every night for the Wizards to be successful. Everyone knows that when he's hot, so are the Wizards. So look for John Wall to be exactly who he always is.
2. Defense
Last season, the Wizards were 20th in points allowed per 100 possessions, and 24th in the league in opponents field goal percentage. There was little evidence of improvement during the offseason, but let's hope the team is ready by their season opener against the 76ers.
3. Bench players will need to step up.
Late in the pre-season we saw point guard Tomas Satoransky and Jason Smith make sure they were known as a force to be reckoned with. In the Wizards' win against the New York Knicks, Satoransky had 10 points and 5 assists, with Smith adding three 3-pionters. You will definitely want to keep an eye out for these two guys who could make a big impact this year.
4. "No rebounds-No rings."
Pat Riley couldn't have said it better. With an aging Marcin Gortat who is also the leading rebounder on the team, the big question is how much longer will he be able to perform at his level? Last year he averaged 9.9 rebounds per game. The second best rebounder on the team was Markieff Morris. Maybe Morris is the player that will start to be the leader on the boards.
5. Otto Porter
At 6'8, 198 pounds, he's proven during the preseason that he has one of the best mid-range jumpers in the NBA. He'll definitely become a favorite for John Wall to pass to this season.
