Washington picks up their 2nd win of the season, 1st on the road, with a 124-120 victory over the Chicago Bulls.
The Wizards started off a little slow in this one, similar to how they started against the Raptors, on Friday, allowing the Bulls to build an early 10-point lead, which was built on the Bulls playing with tremendous pace. The Wizards’ transition defense was lacking in the first half, being outpaced in fast break points, 19-5.
In the 2nd half, the Wizards started countering the Bulls fast
pace by also playing with at a fast pace as well, which lead to easier transition points and allowed Washington build a lead. Washington was able to get up to as much as 19 points.
The transition offense seemed to really pick up the Wizards energy on the defensive end. Washington looked a lot more engaged on that end, holding to just 20 points in the 3rd quarter and outscored the Bulls, 40-20 in that frame.
In the 4th quarter, the Bulls went on a 16-4 run in the final few minutes of the game to draw within 3 points with just 23 seconds left, but the Wizards were able to hit some critical free throws to put this one away. Washington’s defensive intensity absolutely started to wane again, but they were fortunate to have enough of a cushion to hold off Chicago.
The Wizards were led by Trae Young who finished with 25 points and 9 assists. Kyshawn George also had a strong performance, including some key And-1s in the 4th quarter. He finished with 22 points and 9 rebounds.
A much better performance in the 2nd half by the team, but they will need to find a way to play more consistently for 48 minutes, especially on the defensive end.
The Wizards climb back over .500 once again, at 2-1, with a trip to Charlotte to take on division foe, Charlotte Hornets.
