Preview: Wizards aim to snap losing skid, host Bulls Wednesday in D.C.
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Preview: Wizards aim to snap losing skid, host Bulls Wednesday in D.C.

Jan 21, 2024

After winning five straight games, the Wizards (17-24) have found themselves on the wrong side of the result in their last three. Thankfully, the NBA is a league of quick turnarounds, so the Wizards have a chance to get back on track Wednesday night when the Bulls (19-22) stroll into Capital One Arena. Here's what you need to know.

WHERE: Capital One Arena (Washington, D.C.)WHEN: 7:00 p.m. ETTV: NBC Sports WashingtonRADIO: The Team 980 & The Wizards App

INJURY REPORT:

WIZARDS:Bradley Beal (left hamstring strain -- out)Johnny Davis (right hip strain -- out)Daniel Gafford (right ankle sprain -- out)Corey Kispert (lower back soreness -- questionable)Kristaps Porzingis (right rib contusion -- out)

BULLS: Lonzo Ball (left knee surgery -- out)Tony Bradley (health and safety protocols -- out)Alex Caruso (right ankle sprain -- probable)DeMar DeRozan (right quadricep strain -- questionable)Javonte Green (right knee soreness -- out)

KYLE KUZMA ATTACKING UNDER CONTROL

Kyle Kuzma's offensive creation and shot-making ability have been crucial for the Wizards this season. He's having a career year, averaging over 21 points per game on 46.1% shooting from the field to go along with 7.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists. With Bradley Beal out of the lineup due to a hamstring strain, Kuzma's offensive production is more important than ever.

On Monday night in D.C., Kuzma did some fantastic things on the offensive end of the court. However, he was whistled for four offensive fouls and ended up fouling out of the ball game after only 23 minutes of action.

In order for the Wizards to get back on track, they'll need Kuzma to be the All-Star-level attacker Wizards fans love, but he'll have to do so while remaining under control so he can remain in the game as long as possible.

LIMITING ZACH LaVINE

The Bulls are playing solid basketball as of late, winning eight of their last 12 games, and All-Star guard Zach LaVine has been a huge part of that success. Over those 12 games, LaVine has averaged 26.9 points per game on .516/.474/.871 shooting splits to go along with nearly five assists and five boards.

If you shrink that sample size and look at the Bulls' last three games, his scoring numbers are even more absurd. Over the last three games, LaVine has put up 34.7 points per game on 56.3% shooting from the field and 55.3% shooting from deep while attempting 13 three-balls per game. He's in the middle of an otherworldly heater, so the Wizards' perimeter defenders will have to be locked in to make life tough on him.

THE BACKCOURT OFF THE BENCH

Delon Wright and Jordan Goodwin have been sensational this season for the Wizards. Both guys can lock up opposing ball handlers, disrupt dribble-handoffs, and jump the passing lanes. They're menaces on the defensive end of the floor.

On Monday night, both guys struggled a bit offensively but were still able to make a positive impact on the game. They played 17 minutes apiece and each grabbed two steals. The Wizards will need everything those two can provide when it comes to stopping the Bulls' guards.

WHEREWHENTVRADIOINJURY REPORTKYLE KUZMA ATTACKING UNDER CONTROL LIMITING ZACH LaVINE THE BACKCOURT OFF THE BENCH