Game Preview
The Washington Wizards (5-25) are set to host the Chicago Bulls (15-18) on Wednesday night in a clash between two teams heading in opposite directions. While the Bulls have won two straight and are hovering around .500 on the season, the struggling Wizards have dropped two in a row and own a dismal 16.7% win percentage.
Washington's offensive woes continue, as they've averaged just 108.4 points per game this season while surrendering 122.4. Their shooting numbers have been particularly concerning, connecting on a shade below 44% from the field and a meager 32% from deep. The Wizards' recent form has been similarly dismal, scoring 111.4 points over their last five games while allowing 121.4.
Chicago, on the other hand, has thrived offensively, pouring in 121 points per contest. Their shooting splits have been impressive, hitting 46.8% overall and a respectable 37.4% from three-point range. While the Bulls' defense has matched their opponents' scoring output, they've outrebounded teams by nearly 2 boards per game and dished out 30.3 assists. Over their last 10 games, Chicago has scored a scorching 123.8 points per outing.
The key for the Wizards will be containing Chicago's balanced attack, as the Bulls have five players averaging double-digit scoring this season. Washington must find a way to slow the pace and limit turnovers, as they're averaging a concerning 15.6 giveaways per game. If the Wizards can't improve their shooting and shore up their defensive lapses, it could be another long night against a surging Bulls squad.