Injury Update:
Wizards: Daniel Gafford (Possibly Injured, ankle); Johnny Davis (Day-to-Day, elbow); Landry Shamet (Out, toe)
Celtics: No Injuries Reported
Key Points to Monitor:
The Washington Wizards continue their home stretch, facing the undefeated Boston Celtics. Washington is riding the momentum of their season home opener victory against the Memphis Grizzlies, where six Wizards contributed with double-digit scoring, five of them being starters, and Corey Kispert making a significant impact coming off the bench.
The Celtics are fresh from a 119-111 triumph over the Miami Heat, with Derrick White leading the way with 28 points. Notably, all their starting players recorded double-figure points. The Wizards are poised to face a challenging task defensively against the Celtics, who possess a formidable lineup of sharpshooters.
While the Wizards secured a victory in their previous game, their defensive performance left room for improvement. Despite holding a substantial lead of 25 points against Memphis, they allowed their opponents to close the gap, making it a closely contested match. Considering that the Pacers managed to score 143 points, the Wizards must prepare for a formidable offensive display from the Boston team.
Adding to the intrigue, the Wizards will face a familiar foe in Kristaps Porzingis, whom they traded to the Celtics in a three-team deal involving Memphis. The status of Daniel Gafford, listed as questionable, raises concerns for this game. His absence could leave the Wizards vulnerable in the front court, especially against Porzingis, who can dominate both inside and beyond the three-point line.