Suns' relentless offense and three-point barrage overwhelmed the Wizards, exposing their inexperience despite promising individual performances.
The Washington Wizards remain in the loss column following their 112-93 defeat at the hands of the Pheonix Suns on Sunday night.
Washington's inexperience was shown tonight, as Pheonix grew a lead all the way out to 32 points at one moment.
Both streams struggled to find efficiency from the field, as Pheonix shot 42% and Washington 40%. However, the difference came from behind the arc through Pheonix's 17 made three pointers compared to Washington's seven. On the bright side, Washington made all 18 of their free throw attempts -- signs of growth.
Speaking of signs of growth, "the big Eiffel" Alex Sarr feasted on the glass, hauling in a season's best 15 rebounds. Sarr found success inside the arc, getting down low and using his length to finish above the rim. Sarr finished with 19 points on 7/15 shooting with three blocks. The sophomore is now averaging 17.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists on 50% efficiency while leading the league in blocks -- talk about a sophomore jump.
Rookie guard Tre Johnson displayed his proficient shot making and three-level scoring upside. He looked comfortable handling the ball through traffic, even using his body multiple times to create separation.
Johnson ended his night scoring 19 points on 8/15 shooting and 3/8 from three. Johnson has started to assert himself more into Washington's offense through taking more shots. Head Coach Brian Keefe displayed confidence in his rookie as Johnson played a career high 30 minutes tonight. Washington may have a rising superstar on their hands.
Production was bleak from the rest of Washington's core, aside from Bilal Coulibaly who finished with 12 points on 2/5 shooting from three. Coulibaly was on the receiving end of the play of the night, as Alex Sarr would deny Devin Booker, then take the rebound full court and find Bilal Coulibaly for a ferocious slam dunk.
Washington's promising combo forward Kyshawn George was a non-factor offensively tonight, as he had a season worst six turnovers on 2/10 shooting. However, the bright spot with George is his defensive versatility and playmaking upside, two traits that he presented tonight.
Washington continues to show growth, but tonight's loss was a reminder that they are still a young rebuilding team. Pheonix advances to 24-15, and are only 0.5 games back of the Golden State Warriors in the Pacific division. Washington falls to 10-28 on the season.
The Wiz Kids will be back in action on Wednesday where they'll take on the Los Angeles Clippers on the road.