Wizards vs. Knicks GameThread

The Washington Wizards (6-16) are facing the New York Knicks (11-15) for the first time this season. The Wizards’ home game will tip-off at 7 p.m. ET on NBC Sports Washington or MSG Network if you’re in the Big Apple. Both teams are coming off losses.

Bradley Beal will be the first time he sits out due to rest this season. The only previous game the shooting guard missed was the team’s Jan.9 game against the Miami Heat due to the NBA’s COVID-19 protocols. Beal is leading the league in scoring with 32.8 points per game and not having him play will only make winning harder for the Wizards. After all, he’s done this season, we can’t knock him for needing a night off.

Tonight will be Derrick Rose’s second game back with the Knicks. The point guard was reunited with coach Tom Thibodeau after the Pistons agreed to trade him to New York. The Pistons acquired guard Dennis Smith Jr. and a 2021 second-round draft pick via the Charlotte Hornets. The Knicks are coming off a 2-point Tuesday loss against the Heat, where Rose had 14 in his return. Elfrid Payton, who is averaging 12.1 points per game this season, led the team with 18 points. Julius Randle and RJ Barrett are leading the Knicks in scoring with 22.3 and 17 points respectively.

Aside from Beal and Thomas Bryant being out, the Wizards will have plenty of available players. The Wizards are going to need Russell Westbrook and more to show up this game if the Wizards want to compete. Beal has shown us all season that no one person can do it alone…