Bryant Back, Washington Defeats Orlando

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Wednesday’s game against the Orlando Magic saw Thomas Bryant return to action for the first time since tearing his ACL last season. Bryant’s return provides some frontcourt help for the Wizards. Bryant was injured January 9, 2021 when Washington played the Miami Heat and is returning just over a year since this injury. In 12 minutes, Bryant had 6 pts and was 1 for 1 from three. Washington’s two other primary centers, Daniel Gafford and Montrezl Harrell, do not shoot three pointers. A shooting big is something that the Wizards desperately need to provide a spark down the stretch of games and Thomas Bryant will look to fill this role.

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Once again for the Wizards, it was the Kyle Kuzma show. With Bradley Beal in Covid protocols, Kuzma stepped up and was 7-11 from the field with 19 points. In addition to this efficiency, Kuzma flirted with a triple-double as he added 10 rebounds and 9 assists in a dominant performance. Rookie Corey Kispert also had a nice game and was 3-5 from deep. The Wizards are in the middle of a long home stand and should look to continue their impressive form. 

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Coach Wes Unseld Jr. was just placed into health and safety protocols ahead of Saturday’s matchup against the shorthanded Portland Trailblazers. Pat Delany will fill in for Wes in the meantime as the Wizards look to extend their win streak to four games. Bradley Beal has been ruled out for Saturday’s game, so we should expect Kuzma to continue to lead the Wizards offensively.