The Wizards are changing their approach and will switch to a faster game, which should suit the players who joined and get more out of the squad: “It’s going to be amazing.” Is it suitable for loss?
When Wes Anseld Jr. first took over as head coach of the Washington Wizards in 2021, he described in detail how he bases a game system built around a fast pace, and how he believes that playing faster is actually a winning strategy. After arriving from the Nuggets led by Nikola Jokic, he preferred a more balanced approach, focusing on the efficiency of the posse. That was two years ago. This summer a lot has changed in the roster and general expectations of the Wizards. “I think we have the ability to play fastMore. We have more shooters, and of course you need more shooters. So that part is exciting,” the coach said. The Wizards have new management with a new vision in general manager Will Dawkins, who comes from the Oklahoma City Thunder who ranked sixth in the NBA last season in scoring (possessions per 48 minutes). The Line Washington’s new backcourt includes two players, Jordan Paul and Tyus Jones, who came from teams that were in the top 5 in the category. And they join a team that already featured some of the most effective players in the NBA in transition games, with Danny Abedia of course being one of them.
On top of that, almost everyone the Wizards added this summer is considered a three-point shooter. After the 2022-23 season in which the Wizards were ranked 17thIn the NBA in “pace” and in 21st place in 3-point shooting (11.3 per game), this year the team is expected to be based more on the run-and-gun style that could have advantages, beyond improving these statistics. “Oh my gosh, it’s going to be amazing … it’s going to be really fun and it’s going to be fun to watch,” Kyle Kuzma said.
Kuzma elaborated on how the players’ responsibilities will change. The offense will be based more on decision making and quick actions instead of structured play calls in the half court. And that, Kuzma believes, can help some of the younger players express their abilities. Bilal Koulibaly, in particular, could thrive in the open field with his size, speed and athleticismHis.
Kuzma was excellent in transition last year. So was Corey Kispert, who should get more minutes and shoot more threes. Daniel Gafford was the most efficient player in the NBA last season in transition games (points per possession). “From what I’ve seen, we’re really on a fast pace right now. And I like it a lot,” Gafford said. “We’re running up the field. I’m really excited about it, just the change in style coming to Washington.”