Wizards release open practice footage

The Wizards released interesting and entertaining video of an open practice, which included audio from a mic’d up Deni Avdija, as well as commentary from radio broadcasters Dave Johnson and Glenn Consor.

The video shows the Wizards running through various drills, including a three-man weave, 5-on-0 offensive drills, and defensive work. Also shown was part of an intra squad situational scrimmage to help players manage situations late in a close game.

The focus on Avdija put emphasis on the confidence and flair he’s displayed in the first two preseason games. He makes several behind his head and behind the back passes during drills that underscore his comfort level and skill.

One highlight was a section where newly acquired Russell Westbrook taught perimeter defenders how to avoid dying on screens, and urging his teammates to get physical with bigs when they switch. Westbrook needed profanity silenced only 4-5 times in minute or two he was teaching.

The video culminated with a dunk contest of sorts. Yoeli Childs, who was released yesterday, threw down a nice windmill. Avdija tried an inventive “off the wall” dunk that he couldn’t quite get down.