Wizards at Rockets final score: Washington loses first preseason game, 125-119

The Washington Wizards lost to the Houston Rockets, 125-119 on Tuesday night in their first game of the 2021-22 NBA preseason.

Before some of you start getting the pitchforks out for Wes Unseld, Jr. in his first game as the Wizards’ head coach. I get it. Washington lost this game after leading by one, 116-111 with just 3:08 left after a Jordan Goodwin three. Some Kenyon Martin, Jr. dunks, untimely fouls by Washington and made free throws by Houston were what sealed the outcome. But let’s keep in mind that we won’t be seeing You get prospects like Isaiah Todd or Jordan Schakel in a close game situation when the games actually count in the standings.

As for the game itself, I was quite pleased for the most part.

After falling to an early 10 point deficit, the Wizards were able to come back and take a 60-57 lead in the first half. And before their last second collapse, Washington led for most of the second half. Montrezl Harrell in particular looked very good where he had 8 points and 8 rebounds in that time alone. He ended up with 9 points and 11 rebounds. In addition, Bradley Beal scored 18 points while Spencer Dinwiddie had 14 more. Both played about 21 minutes each and had a positive plus/minus rating while in the game. A good first game by the duo if you ask me.

Six Wizards players scored in double figures, including Corey Kispert, Washington’s first round pick in his NBA preseason debut. He had 12 points and made 2-of-6 shots from the three point line.

For Houston, Kevin Porter led their team with 25 points. Jalen Green, the No. 2 overall pick in this year’s draft had 12 points.

Washington’s next preseason game is at home on Saturday at 7 p.m. ET when they play the New York Knicks.