Stats. Analysis. Commentary. Kevin Broom is still out.
The Washington Wizards defeated the Detroit Pistons yesterday 129-125. Let’s break this game down.
Positives
- Shooting Efficiency (eFG%): The Wizards posted an effective field goal percentage (eFG%) of 58.9%, outshooting the Pistons’ 51.8%. This was largely fueled by strong three-point shooting (20-of-45, 44.4%).
- Aggressiveness Getting to the Line: Washington had a free throw rate of 0.30, meaning they attempted 30 free throws per 100 field goal attempts. Their 85.2% conversion rate (23-of-27) was a bright spot.
- Offensive Rebounding Edge: The Wizards grabbed 10 offensive rebounds compared to the Pistons’ 9, giving them an ORB% of 23.8% vs. Detroit’s 19.6%. And on top of that, Washington out-rebounded Detroit, 47-41.
- Balanced Scoring: Several players contributed, with Alex Sarr (19 points), Justin Champagnie (17 points), and Jordan Poole (17 points) leading the charge.
Areas for improvement
- Turnover Issues: Washington struggled with turnovers, posting a TOV% of 13.6%, compared to Detroit’s more controlled 10.4%. These 16 turnovers led to 25 Pistons points.
- Free Throw Discrepancy: Detroit had a massive free throw rate of 0.51, attempting 43 free throws and making 37. Granted, Cade Cunningham attempted 21 of those free throws, but it isn’t out of the question that the Pistons could have won this game. So even though the Wizards’ free throw rate was great, the Pistons’ was greater.
- Paint Defense: The Pistons dominated inside, scoring 56 points in the paint compared to the Wizards’ 36.
- Fast Break Defense: Detroit outscored Washington 29-21 in transition, capitalizing on quick possessions.
Final Takeaway
The Wizards’ strong shooting night, especially from the three point line and rebounding gave them a chance to split the series against Detroit on this trip. Hopefully the Wizards can keep up with this next game, when they play the Denver Nuggets tomorrow at 9 p.m. ET.