Roster - Washington Wizards

After winning only six games in the first seven weeks, the Wizards managed to defy the odds and win three games in week eight. Im as surprised as everyone else is. The Wizards won three games in week eight, their previous three wins took four long weeks to accumulate. What changed all of this? Well there was a shake up in the roster for one. We saw Jamal Crawford take over the starting point guard position, averaging 15.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Julius Randle also moved from power forward to starting center, where he has averaged his highest rebounding totals at 13.8 per game. But the biggest impact was Dragan Bender of all people, starting at power forward and looked like the star of the team. Bender averaged 21.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block per game. He had 26 points in a win against the Pistons, and 26 points in their only loss that week against the Cavaliers. "His ability to stretch the floor really helped us and its hard to guard a guy like Bender with his speed, height, and shooting ability at the power forward spot" said GM Darko. Wizards players and fans are happy to celebrate new years eve with the excitement in Washington. But will the Wizards continue to be able to win, next week they face the 76ers, Jazz, Pacers, and Kings. The Wizards beat the Kings this week, but their next week match up will be very different since the Kings sent Carmelo Anthony packing and the Wizards will have to try to keep Kyle Lowery from blowing by Crawford at every possession. Defense may win Championships, but GM Darko is hoping enough offense is good enough to win more regular season games.

Two new faces showed up in Washington this week. Arron Afflalo was picked up off waivers after the Houston Rockets cut him. GM Darko said Afflalo was brought in to help teach the younger guys the skills they need to grow and become better players. Darko laughed after reports said he was looking to sign and trade Afflalo for a first round draft pick. "No, we want his veteran leadership in Washington, and he has a very good chance to be in the rotation in the near future." said Darko. He wont be in the rotation just yet, after winning three games this week, Darko doesnt want to change the lineup much, but if next week doesnt go as well we will most likely see some changes. Another fresh face around Washington is the power forward JaMychal Green, who was traded to the Wizards for Andre Roberson. GM Darko resigned Roberson in the off-season, but with his contract size and length he was looking to move him ever since. Finally Denver offered a deal that made sense for the Wizards, and the deal was approved within ten minutes of seeing the offer. Green will have to fight Bender for the starting power forward gig, but there wont be any issues next week since Green is on the injured list. Once healthy it should be interesting to see who will eventually get the starting role. After Benders performance this week, its hard to put him back on the bench, especially if the Wizards keep getting wins.