Washington Wizards finally won a game on 8 March after a grueling 16-match losing streak with a win over the Hornets. The Wizards will now head to the Kaseya Center and face the Miami Heat in an upcoming road match. The victory gave them much-needed morale, but, they may find it hard to conserve and build on this momentum.
Richaun Holmes, the star center of the Wizards who helped his team clinch a win against Charlotte has unfortunately ended up on the injury report. This comes as a big blow to the team which is looking to end their disappointing season on a good note. With this, Washington now has a big dent in their defensive output for the game.
Will the Wizards be able to put Holmes on the floor?
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Richuan Holmes’ availability status is questionable for the clash with Miami. He is currently nursing a left big toe sprain. This blow has come at bad timing since their star player Marvin Bagley III remains sidelined because of a back injury. Wizards have struggled a lot but they have shown a sign of improvement. Kuzma and Avdija have led the charge in the last match to lead them to victory.
Richaun Holmes was a key contributor Friday as the Wizards defeated the Hornets. He scored 14 points and collected 11 rebounds in the 112-100 victory.
— Josh Robbins (@JoshuaBRobbins) March 10, 2024
Without Holmes and Marvin, the Wizards would be forced to play with a less competitive team. The Wizards have struggled offensively throughout their losing streak, averaging just 104.2 points per game. Their defense has been inconsistent throughout the season. But, if the Wizards do manage to put their injured center on the floor, this is how they can line up: Kyle Kuzma, Tyus Jones, Bilal Coulibaly, Deni Avdija, and Richaun Holmes. But will this be enough to beat an in-form Miami Heat?
Miami Heat’s recent form and predicted Lineup
Heat will be looking forward to ending their two-game losing streak after failing to win against the Oklahoma City Thunder & Mavericks. Jimmy Butler remains a threat for the Wizards as he averages 21.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. Jaime Jacquez Jr. has been a super sub. While the Heat has been a good defensive unit, they have been inconsistent offensively, particularly in 3rd quarter which cost them a match recently. Miami Boasts a solid 46% shooting from the field and a respectable 38% success from three. This is how they could line up: Nikola Jovic, Bam Adebayo, Duncan Robinson, Jimmy Butler, and Terry Rozier.
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Miami will be looking to exploit the weakness of the Wizards and win the match. They have lost matches recently but their overall record suggests they are favourites to win the game. But the result of the match will depend on Holmes’ presence if he plays Wizards will have a chance to win. Will Washington sneak in another win, or will the Heat step on the Wizards to improve its seeding in the East?