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Wizards vs. Blazers preview: Washington prepares for Wednesday night match in Portland

A game where defense will matter for Washington, something that’s been obsolete all season. The Portland Trail Blazers are also eyeing a playoff spot.

NBA: Portland Trail Blazers at Washington Wizards Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Game Info

When: Wednesday March 4 at 10 p.m. ET

Where: Moda Center in Portland, OR

How to watch: NBC Sports Washington

Injury Report

Wizards: John Wall (Achilles, Out)

Blazers: Damian Lillard (Groin, Game Time Decision); Jusuf Nurkic (Leg, Out); Rodney Hood (Achilles, Out); Zach Collins (Shoulder, Out)

Pregame Notes

Both teams are currently about four games out of the final playoff spot (eighth seed) and with about 20 or more games remaining it’s likely they could squeak their way in. The Wizards have a fully healthy team despite slight minutes restriction with Thomas Bryant and of course John Wall being out for the season.

Can’t say the same for the Blazers.

Portland’s key point guard, Damian Lillard, is still dealing with a groin injury and for the Blazers that’s not good. He’s been a key asset to to their team and in his absence Portland has only won two of their last six games. Lillard currently stands fifth in scoring averaging 29.5 points per game.

As for Washington, if their defense is nonexistent then it won’t even truly matter if Lillard plays or not. The Wizards are last in the league when it comes to their defensive efforts, but somehow fifth in offense. A well balanced effort from Washington on both ends of the floor can only secure the win for the Wizards Wednesday night.