Washington Wizards: 3 Keys To Clinching Their First Round Series

Washington Wizards: 3 Keys To Clinching First-Round Series

Apr 26, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Kelly Oubre Jr. (12) dunks the ball as Atlanta Hawks center Dwight Howard (8) looks on in the fourth quarter in game five of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

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Apr 26, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards guard Bradley Beal (3) dribbles the ball as Atlanta Hawks forward Kent Bazemore (24) defends in the second quarter in game five of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Play Mistake-Free

While it’s easier said than done, the Washington Wizards need to play mistake-free basketball in Game 6 to clinch the series.

The Wizards only had seven turnovers in Game 5 while converting 21 assists. It was the lowest number of turnovers for Washington in the series. As a team, they are averaging 12.2 turnovers per game against the Hawks.

It’s no secret the Wizards are like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde when it comes to playing at home and on the road. Point guard John Wall scored 20 points and had 14 assists, his series-high set back in Game 1. He only committed four turnovers in Game 5, as well.

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If Washington can keep the turnovers to a minimum, they will be able to clinch the series. However, they’re going to have to be prepared for a heavy dosage of Dennis Schroder, Paul Millsap, Taurean Prince and Dwight Howard.

Much like Game 3, the Washington Wizards should expect the Hawks to come out firing on all cylinders. The Hawks scored 38 points in the first quarter and 60 points in the paint for the game.