The Wizards opened the preseason with a close 104-99 loss to the Knicks on Monday. After trailing by as many as 18, the Wizards showed fight late in the game. Washington’s reserves led an inspiring comeback, but ultimately fell short.
Thomas Bryant led the Wizards with 14 points and 14 rebounds in 27 minutes. His defense was much improved as well, anchoring the Wizards in the paint with two blocks and several shot-alterations.
In only 16 minutes of play, Bradley Beal showed off his playmaking with four assists. Scott Brooks said postgame he challenged Beal to create more plays for his teammates rather than take too many shots.