Wizards' Keys to Victory vs. Struggling Knicks

Slow Down Brunson and KAT

Like any game the Wizards find themselves in, the main goal defensively is to slow down the other teams star players. Their matchup versus the Knicks provides an especially tough challenge considering Washington's lack of on ball defensive prowess.

Jalen Brunson is one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA and can take over games in a heartbeat. Washington has struggled to stop or even slow down opposing guards thus far and Brunson is likely the best one they’ve matched up with. Bilal Coulibaly and Kyshawn George will likely pick up the defensive assignment of Brunson and their defensive performances will heavily influence the results of the game. 

Kar-Anthony Towns’ unique skillset will raise his own set of challenges to the Washington defense. His combination of physicality and floor spacing prowess makes him a nightmare to chase around all game. Along with that, Washington lacks positional depth at the center spot — a flaw that will only be amplified with Marvin Bagley III’s lingering injury. 

Don’t Get in a Dog Fight

Although easier said than done, the last thing the Wizards want to do versus the Knicks is get into a dog fight. New York thrives in situations that require physicality and defensive energy, two things that the young Wizards roster has yet to master. If Washington wishes to win this game, their best bet is to trust their offensive prowess to pull through in a shootout.