Back to the Washington Wizards Newsfeed

Washington Wizards Season Outlook 2016-17: Searching For An Identity

For years, the Washington Wizards had prided themselves on being an elite defensive team under Randy Wittman. The coach had instilled a sense of discipline in everyone on the roster. John Wall had become an All-NBA Defender and the frontcourt anchored the paint.

Once the team decided to make the switch to small-ball last season, the defense deteriorated.

Without two bigs, the Wizards’ rim protection fell apart. Jared Dudley, who’s played small-forward for virtually his entire career, was asked to defend players who were bigger, faster and more physical.