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"I'm a tough kid. I feel as though it has to be broke in order for me not to play," Beal said. "At the same time, I want a long career in this league and I have to take care of my body and I have to do what's best for myself and my team. And I feel if I can't make shots for my team then there is no purpose for me being on the floor. I'm definitely going to continue to support my team and just try to let this thing heal on its own."
"I have to take time off," Beal said. "It's hard to do that, but I have to live with it."
Most have noticed Beal's recent slump, and as much as the rookie doesn't want to admit it's affecting his game ... it's affecting his game.
If he is forced to miss any games, Beal said that there would be no timetable and he wouldn't play until his hand got right.
"I guess it's somewhat day-to-day and see how it feels in the next few days and then let it heal. I've been playing a lot. Maybe that's what it is. It's a little injury," he said. "It's not 100 percent. If I feel as though I'm can't help the team like I was previously, then I'm not going even going to play."
Randy Wittman said he's "anticipating" having Beal available Wednesday against the 76ers, but admitted there was a chance he would sit.
Though many have hoped that Washington's new-found energy (thanks to Wall's comeback) could shoot the Wizards up the Eastern Conference to snag that eighth playoff seed, this injury to Beal makes that push even less likely. If he keeps playing through the injury, he's going to continue to perform below the best of his ability. If he's sidelined, then the team will miss his contributions.
It's a no-win situation, and all we can do is hope for a speedy recovery for the promising young rookie.