Washington Wizards: 2017-18 NBA season preview

Predictions

It’s hard to foresee the Washington Wizards not finishing in the top four teams in the Eastern Conference once again. Year 2 under Scott Brooks should have a lot more focus on the defensive end, though.

The Wizards ranked 21st in the NBA in points allowed per game (107.4) and 20th in defensive efficiency (109.3). The team was 16-3 in games it allowed fewer than 100 points. Washington needs a whole lot more performances where they allow fewer than 100 points if it wants to get over the hump.

The Celtics are a stronger offensive squad, as are the Cavaliers. Then, it’s always easy to forget about Kyle Lowry and the Toronto Raptors, who are also lurking as a contender in the Eastern Conference.

Washington is still a young and improving franchise. It will be interesting to see how durable Jodie Meeks and Ian Mahinmi are this season as they will be looked upon to carry some of the burden on both ends of the floor — Meeks for his 3-point shooting, Mahinmi for his ability to protect the rim.

Next: 30 reasons to be excited for the 2017-18 NBA season

Finishing with 50 wins, first in the Southeast Division and the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference is the goal for the Washington Wizards in 2017-18. It would be their first 50-win regular season since the 1978-79 season.