Wizards vs. Timberwolves preview: Washington look to start off March with a win

The Washington Wizards sit at 29-30, a game below .500, and have won 4 out of their last 5 games. The Minnesota Timberwolves have a record of 19-41, but as we have learned this season, there are no easy games for the Wizards.

With 23 games left in the year, every game feels like a must-win. The Wolves, although well out of playoff contention, present an intriguing group of talent which should not be taken lightly. Losing these types of games could serve worse than just another loss in the column.

Game Info

When: Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at 8:00 p.m.

Where: Target Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

TV: CSN Washington

Radio: WNEW 99.1 FM, THE Radio Party!

Injury Report

Wizards: Gary Neal (Out, he will not join the team on this 2 game road trip)

Timberwolves: No Injuries to report.

Keys to Success

1. Take Advantage

There are no guaranteed wins in the NBA, but these type of games for a playoff team are a breeze. This Wizards team, however, is neither a playoff team or a team that can take these games lightly. With a healthy squad, assuming Nene and Alan Anderson are good to go, the excuses are minimal. The Wolves had some impressive wins in February (Against the Celtics, Raptors and Clippers), so the Wizards need all hands on deck for this one.

2. Watch the Throne

Okay, maybe not the actual throne, but the Wizards are chasing the Hornets, Bulls, Pacers and Pistons for the 6th/7th/8th seed. The Pacers are on the road in Milwaukee and the Pistons are in San Antonio. With a Win against the Wolves and a loss by the Pistons and or Pacers, the Wizards could find themselves 1 game back of the 8th seed.

3. Eye of the Tiger

The Wizards have been questioned all year about their work ethic and their professionalism. We've reached the time in the season where the off-court antics are silenced with their performance on the court. With a chance to creep closer to a playoff spot, the Wizards must protect the ball, play defense and attack the basket.

Potential Wizards Killer: Gorgui Dieng

The former 21st pick of the 2013 NBA draft has all the potential to wreak havoc on the Wizards. It might not come in the way of points, but Dieng will be a pain on the boards against a team struggling to get rebounds. He also provides solid rim protection and appears to be super athletic. Lengthy, athletic and active, are all a recipe for the perfect center to give the Wizards hell.