$Washington Wizards\' Quarter Mark Report Card$

Washington Wizards' Quarter Mark Report Card

By Dave Daniels

Washington Wizards' Quarter Mark Report Card

Washington Wizards v New York Knicks — The Washington Wizards are a complete team. They have a little bit of everything from veteran leadership and young talented players to big men with court savvy and guards wise beyond their years. I often forget how Bradley Beal and John Wall have not even begun to peak yet. Here is my report card for D.C. after the season's first quarter.

5. Offense: B+

Indiana Pacers v Washington Wizards - Game Four

5. Offense: B+

Indiana Pacers v Washington Wizards - Game Four — They lead the league in assists per game, which is all thanks to Wall. They should have no problem keeping that lead throughout the season, because their gameplan usually runs through his ability to collapse the defense with drive-and-kick passes. Their offensive imagination has definitely improved since last year's playoffs.

4. Defense: A

Washington Wizards v Chicago Bulls

4. Defense: A

Washington Wizards v Chicago Bulls — Defense is their calling card. Only allowing 97.2 points per game so far this season, the Wizards generate great looks on offense by what they do on the defensive end. Paul Pierce has looked scrappier than usual while guarding the other team's best wings, and D.C. also has a game-changing player in Wall. If you have not seen one of his blocks on an unsuspecting big man, then you have not watched Washington much.

3. Star Players: B+

New Orleans Pelicans v Washington Wizards

3. Star Players: B+

New Orleans Pelicans v Washington Wizards — Wall has been brilliant, and I only drop their grade to the B-level because of Beal still finding his way back from injury. He will get there, but it is going to take a little time. Pierce has had more in the tank than they could have expected, and his play looks sharp and motivated so far.

2. Coaching: C+

Randy Wittman

2. Coaching: C+

Randy Wittman — Regular readers of mine already know my opinion on Randy Wittman, but I will admit he has done a better job than expected this time around. Eventually, if the Wizards truly have championship designs, then it might be prudent to make a change.

1. Bench Play: B+

Atlanta Hawks v Washington Wizards

1. Bench Play: B+

Atlanta Hawks v Washington Wizards — Kris Humphries has been better than advertised and got a chance to start early on this year due to injuries. The Wizards are also getting an extra bonus in Rasual Butler's scorching percentage (.523) from behind the three-point line.

Teams in this article »

Washington Wizards

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