The Washington Wizards were launched into space and did not survive on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets in a 135-112 contest at Toyota Center. The game felt like a harsh reminder of how far Washington has
to go to become a competitive team, let alone a contender like Houston.
In the first quarter, Kyshawn George got an education on what it takes to defend a scorer like Kevin Durant. The former NBA MVP went off for 16 points, with several jumpers right over the top of George’s outstretched arms. George led the Wizards in scoring with seven points in the opening period as his team trailed 40-29.
The game unraveled quickly in the second quarter as Houston pounded Washington on the glass for a 38-22 rebounding edge before halftime. The Rockets made good use of those extra possessions, out-assisting the Wizards 20-12 to take an 81-54 lead at the break. Alex Sarr tallied 12 points and six rebounds through two quarters.
Washington showed some signs of life in the third. Sarr and Tre Johnson combined to score 14 of the team’s first 16 points of the half. George dished out five of his nine assists in the period as the Wizards outscored the Rockets 33-22 to make things a tiny bit interesting.
Corey Kispert opened the final period with a three-pointer to cut the gap to 13. But that was as close as the Wizards would get, as the team suffered their 10th loss in a row.
Sarr had another productive outing against a rugged Rockets frontline. He led Washington with 25 points and 11 rebounds on 10-of-15 shooting from the floor. George had an all-around game with 16 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. Johnson scored 12 points on four three-pointers in his fourth career start.
The Wizards may have their best shot at ending their losing streak on Sunday when they host the Brooklyn Nets on four days of rest.
