What has been the biggest difference for the Wizards since the All-Star break, as they have gone 6-6 in their last 12 games after a three-game losing streak out of the break?
To head coach Brian Keefe, who joined the Junkies Friday to discuss the surge, the answer boils down to two key words: leadership and defense.
“It’s a combination of things, but we've gotten way better defensively over this stretch, and some of the additions of some of our veteran guys have helped,” Keefe said. “Our younger guys and the guys who've been here all year just have established some good habit, and I think those things coming together at the right time has improved our play. That's what we wanted to do is just get better each month, and we've shown that. So, I’ve been really happy with our group, and how our play has been for sure.”
One of those young guys who has benefitted is last year’s No. 2 pick Alex Sarr, who has seen his scoring and three-point shooting averages surge since the break.
“When you're a guy coming into the league, there's always an adjustment period, but he's kind of just progressed each month for us,” Keefe said. “Obviously, we're seeing the shooting and the scoring going out, but it's a little bit of everything – his playmaking ability, his ability to drive, and then the most important thing for us is his defensive versatility; he’s able to protect the rim and guard on the perimeter. We love how Alex is progressing. We still got some more time during the year, so we're looking forward to that.”
Listen to Keefe’s entire visit about the state of the Wiz above!