Is there trouble in paradise? The Washington Wizards have struggled as of late. Even with their 109-103 win over the Utah Jazz Saturday night, the Wizards are 6-12 in their last 18 games after starting the season with a 10-3 record.
Now, there is a report by the Athletic’s Josh Robbins, some of the Wizards players are unhappy with the direction of the team’s offense.
“At the end of the day, it’s like the old saying, ‘You’ve got to throw a squirrel a nut,’” center Montrezl Harrell said. “We’re not saying throw it to us and let us clear out and iso and go and do our thing. No. But at the same time, let us feel it, not just off rebounding and then giving it to a guard. No, let us get a touch early to get a shot. Let’s give us something to let us feel like we’re involved in the game as well.”
The Wizards have stumbled to a 16-15 record. The slump highlighted by a struggling offense. One that rates as one of the worst-paced and bottom half in key offensive stats.
Harrell didn’t directly name three-time all-star Bradley Beal, but it’s not hard to decipher what he and who he is referring to. Unlike in years past, the offense runs primarily through Beal. That’s even with point guard in Spencer Dinwiddie, who Washington signed to a three-year, $54 million deal this offseason.
A first-year head coach, roster shakeup that landed four key pieces this offseason and Beal seemed to be a recipe for success.
Yet, Washington has cooled off as of late. The flow of offense has been stagnant. Even Beal’s numbers are down. He’s averaging 23.3 points per game — his lowest in four seasons. He’s also shooting a career-low 28.3% from three.
That’ hasn’t stopped Beal from attempting close to 20 shots from the field per game. It’s just over eight more attempts per game than the next teammate Kyle Kuzma. Yes, Beal leads the team in assists, but teammates have stood around and waited for Beal to throw them a bone.
It appears there is a lack of chemistry. Dinwiddie’s hesitancy shooting may be attributed in part to the offensive system. Others on the team not named Beal have to figure the right formula to divide touches.
“The process has got to be right, though,” Dinwiddie told the Athletic. “So if we’re equal-opportunity and that’s our thing, then that’s our thing, and I’m fine, whatever it is. I told you from the jump: Whatever it may be, I’m here to do whatever I’m asked to do.”
Wizard head coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged some players have approached him in recent days. He’s aware human nature can affect players, especially when they feel they’re not involved or getting enough touches.
With there already being concerns over the offensive structure, it will be interesting how the expected additions of Rui Hachimura (personal) and Thomas Bryant (ACL) affect matters.
