Washington Wizards WizKid Player Of The Week: Marcin Gortat
Washington Wizards center Marcin Gortat shines this week to earn his first WizKid honor.
It was another up and down week for the Washington Wizards. They finally got to a .500 record against the Atlanta Hawks, only to go back down against them at home, while also losing to the Minnesota Timberwolves in double overtime. Fortunately, they cleaned up their act Sunday night against the Los Angeles Lakers in the Staples Center.
The Wizards are still vying for that final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. As much as their chances look slim, they seek to not want to give up hope. A show of character has been instilled in the team. And as much as their All-Star point guard John Wall is to thank for it, Marcin Gortat deserves praise as today’s Washington Wizards WizKid Player of the week.
The Polish Hammer exerted his dominance over his opponents this past week, averaging 16 points and 11.25 rebounds per game. He had three straight double-doubles during the week as well. His presence was known on the court, starting with the Hawks. Gortat made sure he put his stamp on the game, in a tough road game nonetheless.
In a league where big men seem to going extinct, Gortat shines bright and prevailed to help the Wizards get the 117-102 win.
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Unfortunately, the team couldn’t replicate the same winning formula at the home as they were blown out of the Verizon Center, 122-101. Despite the crucial loss, the man in the middle prevailed as he mirrored his point total with his boards (14 points, 14 rebounds).
The Wizards would then need Gortat’s services against the young but resilient Timberwolves. It took all of Gortat’s 19 points and 14 rebounds to battle back. However, they were defeated 132-129 in double overtime. The team may have lost, but Gortat’s play started increasing as of late.
His final game of three straight double doubles would come last night in la la land. Living up to his nickname, Gortat aided John Wall in hammering the Lakers for a 101-88 win.
Gortat has risen his level of play in order for his team to try to make a run. It’s been a rather disappointing season for the Wizards thus far. However they are still optimistic that they can secure the eighth spot for the playoffs. And as much as Wall and Bradley Beal are looked upon to lead the way, games such as the ones Gortat has had three past week can give them hope that their efforts won’t go in vain.
It is this type of effort which earned Gortat the honor of WizKid of the week.