Midnight Train Derails In Georgia

Saturday, October 31, 2009

By Brian Jackson
CSNwashington.com

If Tuesday’s nights season opening win in Dallas showed a glimpse of the future. Friday night’s loss in Atlanta was eerie reminder of what last season was like.  The Hawks swept last seasons series (4-0) as the Wizards finished a franchise worst 1-15 record in the Southeast Division. 

After falling down 4-0 early Gilbert Arenas led a charge in which the Wizards ran off 12 straight points.  “It was almost too easy,” said Flip Saunders of the early advantage.  That brief lead was indeed a mirage as the Hawks finished the first quarter on a 15-4 run of their own and they would never trail again.  Sensing his team was in need of a spark, Arenas attempted to force the issue but it’s quite apparent he hasn’t shaken off the rust from missing most of the last two seasons.  On several occasions he tried to split defenders only to have the ball taken away.  Arenas finished with game high seven turnovers to only four assists.  He did lead all scorers with 23 points but it came on only 9-of-22 shooting from the field. 

With Antawn Jamison still out with a right shoulder injury the Wizards got more bad news on the injury front.  Caron Butler bruised his left knee in the second quarter and did not return.  Flip Saunders said he wasn’t sure if Butler would be available for tomorrow night’s home opener against New Jersey.  With two-thirds of the Big 3 out of the lineup Nick Young was provided an opportunity for extended minutes.  After picking up a DNP (coaches decision) in the opener it was obvious that Young was pressing.  He never did find his rhythm going 0-for-8 from the field and was constantly beat on the defensive end.  

The shooting struggles weren’t only limited to Young.  Randy Foye led the Wizards with 19 points off the bench in the opener but last night he made only 3 of 12 shots.  This game likely came down to free throw shooting or lack there of on the Wizards part.  Washington went 14-22 (64%) meanwhile Atlanta knocked down 31-34 (91%). 

Next up the Wizards will open their home schedule with a Halloween Bash against New Jersey.  Last night the Nets lost 95-85 at the hands of the Magic.  They are still in search of their first win on the young season.