The Wizards did everything right against Toronto eight days ago. Their stars shot well, they controlled the boards the subs provided a spark and a 20-point win proved just how good the Wizards could be.
Then came the week from, well, a place that gets quite hot. And now the Wizards must prevent a big slide.
Since that win over Toronto, the Wizards (34-28) have lost to a depleted Atlanta squad; dropped a buzzer-beater at home to the sub .500-New York Knicks; and lost on another last-second shot a day later at hard-charging Miami.
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Seeking another crowning achievement
They enter tonight’s game at Indiana (29-33) holding a one-game lead over Miami in the Southeast Division, a race that seemed dead when Miami’s Dwyane Wade injured his shoulder.
“No one has made the playoffs,” Wizards coach Eddie Jordan said. “It [isn’t] about holding on. You’re still fighting to get in and you have to be motivated just like the Knicks, just like Miami trying to get first place. That’s where we are.”
The Wizards have lost three straight at a time when other Eastern Conference contenders are getting hot (four of the top six teams have won seven of their last 10). Veteran wisdom is needed to guard against sinking further.
“You can’t take back wins or losses, but you can worry about the next game,” reserve guard Antonio Daniels said. “At the point we’re at now, we can’t afford to sulk on losses or over-celebrate wins.”
Butler ailing
All-Star Caron Butler missed practice Tuesday because of his ailing left knee and might sit out the team’s game at Indiana tonight.
Butler’s status will be a game-time decision, Wizards spokesman Zack Bolno said.
Washington’s other All-Star, Gilbert Arenas, also sat out practice Tuesday. He did do individual drills and weightlifting and will play Wednesday, Bolno said.
— AP
