betprepare.com

Boston struggle away lately

Boston Celtics turned out to be tricky opponents for the Wizards in both head-to-head games this season

Getty Images

After ending their 6-game winning run as they met Phoenix home, Washington went on to record another failure, this time to the Bulls home. Coach Wittman's men thus got very close to tying three defeats for the first time this season, but luckily for them, the schedule decided they are to play the Knicks, who proved to be the best possible opponent for the Wizards at that point. 

The capital city team controlled the game from the very start, taking a 16-point lead by half time. The Knicks got more aggressive later on only to make the defeat less bad.

- The energy was high from the start and we'll be getting better as the time goes by - Beal said.

Getty Images

Lead by the brilliant Wall, the Wizards had field goal efficiency of 51.2% with 25 assists, while allowing the Knicks efficiency of 45%.

- This performance is what we want to play like and what we have been like for the most part of the season - Wittman said. His team scored more points from the key (50-28) and recorded more rebounds (45-36).

Wall scored team-best 24 points (10-for-17), 11 assists, and 6 rebounds, while Beal added 17 points and Humpries recorded 14, with 6 rebounds.

That win ended Washington's two-game losing streak and they now face Boston against whom they have a 1-1 record this season. Wall and others managed to win the second head-to-head game after the second overtime. Pierce scored 28 points, Wall 26 in that game, while Washington's defense didn't have a response for Green and Smart (28+23 points).

Three wins followed by three defeats and so on is what Boston's record in the last 12 games is. Sadly but right on schedule, the win over the Wolves that was the third consecutive one was followed by three defeats, the last one taking place at their TD Garden to the Nets last night.

Since they were 11 points up early in the final quarter, it seemed their will end the three wins-three defeats rhythm, but the Nets got back in the game with a 15-4 run to do the finish better lead by Jack, even though Sullinger had the chance to force an overtime in the end, but missed the final shot.

- It was a good attempt that gave a good shot, considering the situation - coach Steven said.

Interestingly, the Celtics lost despite having a field goal efficiency of 51.7%, while limiting the Nets to 49.4%. But the opponents were better at rounding (43-37) and free throws - the Nets had 28 (scored 20), while Boston had only 11 (scored 8).

After performing badly in the Orlando game, Green and Sullinger improved last night to finish 22 points and five assists and 19 points and 9 rebounds, respectfully. 

- I knew I didn't well against Orlando. I talked to the coach and he said he trusted me - Sullinger said.

Boston are looking to end their three-game losing streak in the capital city tonight when they take on the Wizards for the third time this season. Boston aren't doing well away lately, having recorded 6 defeats in the last 7 games-

It will be interesting to see whether coach Stevens will go with Smart from the start. He was happy with Smart's defense energy last night, but Smart's problem is offense in which he lack determination. He could have an important role in defense though, trying to guard Wall.