Washington Wizards: 3 lineup changes that may help end the losing streak
Push Ish Smith back to the second unit
This move is just as much about Smith’s play in the second unit as it is giving Shabazz Napier a chance with the starting five. The Wizards just haven’t played the same with Smith in the starting lineup, and are 6-13 with games in which he’s played that role.
Napier on the other hand, impressed in his limited time in the Timberwolves’ starting lineup before inevitably landing in Washington with the Wizards. He posted averages of 11.4 points, 6.4 assists, and 1.2 steals over a 22-game stretch for Minnesota.
Brooks mentioned before the loss to Milwaukee that returning Smith to the bench had been “under consideration,” but didn’t speak about a potential timetable.
Scott Brooks says Ish Smith going back to the bench is “under consideration,” though not tonight. Brooks has talked all year about how much he likes using Smith off the bench. He went into the starting lineup after the Wizards traded Isaiah Thomas.
— Fred Katz (@FredKatz) February 24, 2020
Smith’s role was invented, and survived by his play within the team’s second units. And seeing as he’ll continue to play that role next year once John Wall returns, it only makes sense. Napier is 18.6 points and 7.2 assists Per 36 minutes in this stint with the Washington Wizards.
And as much as Beal kept things close for Washington in their loss to the Bucks, Napier deserves some credit too. He went off for 27 points and 7 assists on Monday night.
Napier’s an expiring free agent, and playing him in the starting five may be best for the team’s chances at a win, while simultaneously aiding the front office in their inevitable decision on whether or not to bring him back next season.