The Washington Wizards went on the road for Games 3 and 4 and came out empty due to poor shooting. As a team, they shot around 42 percent in both games combined, getting hammered by 18 points in Game 3 and by 10 points in Game 4. Being back home, John Wall and the Wizards look to get back on track.
The point guard matchup
Dennis Schroder and Wall have been going at it since Game 1, with Wall getting the upper hand in the first two games, but Schroder responding in the last two games. While Wall uses his speed and athleticism to score, Schroder plays in half-court sets and uses his craftiness to get baskets.
It’s up to these point guards to carry their respective teams to victory.
The physicality of the game
The two teams have been physical with one another, scrapping on every play and banging down low. Whichever team is most physical in Game 5 will prevail. Most of the physical play has been coming in the mid-post between Paul Millsap and Markieff Morris. Except the two power forwards to keep pushing and bumping each other, maybe get in each other’s faces again in this all-too-important Game 5.
The role players for both teams
In Game 4, the Wizards didn’t receive much production from their role players, while the Hawks had balanced scoring, even getting production from 35-year-old Jose Calderon. Sadly, the Wizards received two points form Marcin Gortat, nine points from Morris, and five points from Brandon Jennings.
Usually, those guys play better at home, so it remains to be seen if they can help Wall and Bradley Beal take the series lead.
The Hawks have found consistency from rookie Taurean Prince, who has been a pleasant surprise during the playoffs. He’s been efficient as well, which has resulted into a starting role and heavy minutes for the youngster.
Kent Bazemore was the difference maker off the bench, providing 16 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and three steals in Game 4. He will need to play at the same level on the road if the Hawks are hopeful to steal one in DC.
Ultimately, the game will come down to the role players. We all know what we will get from guys such as Wall, Beal, Millsap, and Schroder, but it will be key for both teams to receive production outside of their stars.
Dwight Howard will also be a significant factor, as he poured in 16 points and 15 rebounds on Monday, being more involved in the offense.
Game 5 will take place in Washington DC at 6 pm Eastern Time on TNT.
