NBA 2015-16 season: Grading every team’s performance

Washington Wizards (E-)

The Wizards made it to the second round of the 2014-15 playoffs, blowing past the Raptors with a first round sweep before having a chance to defeat the 1st seed Hawks in the second round. Washington was once again a notable threat after winning the most games (46) since the new Wizards era began in 1997-98, and at the very least should have maintained similar form this season.

Regardless of Paul Pierce’s departure, leaving fans with no Truth to cheer on for dramatic game-winners, the Wizards shouldn’t have been one of the biggest disappointments in the NBA this season.

But that’s exactly what they’ve been with their 41 wins and nosedive from the 5th seed in 2014-15 to the 10th seed. No matter what talent John Wall and Bradley Beal have together in the backcourt, they aren’t enough to make up for a weaker frontcourt and a bench that struggles to score. And adding Markieff Morris and Marcus Thornton was never going to turn things around.

This is where the main problem lies, as new head coach Randy Wittman has tried to implement a fast-paced, run-and-gun offensive system that relies on constant movement, fluid passing, and three-point shooting. It simply hasn’t worked, though, as the team ranked a mere 21st in offensive efficiency with far too much reliance on Wall to score (career-high 19.9 points per game), spark that movement, and create for others (career-high 10.2 assists per game).

Now, the Wizards need to focus on free agency and keep every finger crossed as they pray Kevin Durant chooses them over everyone else. Because without that change of fortune on the horizon, 2016 has been a complete failure for them.

Next: Chicago Bulls