After holding a players-only meeting earlier in the day, the 2-7 Washington Wizards were determined to come out with a solid performance in front of their home fans.
They did that at the expense of Minnesota, taking down the visiting Timberwolves in a 104-100 victory Tuesday.
In a matchup of two of the league’s top young point guards, Washington’s John Wall struggled shooting the ball but dished out a career-high 16 assists, the final of which went to former Wolf Martell Webster on a three-pointer that gave the Wizards the lead for good.
Ricky Rubio didn’t have his usual helping hand, picking up just two assists while contributing 10 points. The Wolves were led by Kevin Love’s 25 points and 11 rebounds, but Washington played better team basketball, assisting on 31 of their 41 field goals, while Minnesota put up just 22 helpers.
Second-year guard Bradley Beal, the third overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, dropped 25 points, tops in a starting five whom all reached double figures.
It’s only Washington’s third win of the season, while Minnesota is now 2-4 on the road, with just one loss coming at home.
The Wolves have to get home quick, with their next action less than 24 hours away at Target Center against the LA Clippers.
