Wizards Not Enough to Take Down the Surging Nuggets

The Washington Wizards finished their road trip in Denver on Saturday, January `17 where they came up short 121-115 in a hard fought game. 

Washington has now gone on a six game or more losing stream twice this season. 

The youth of Washington actually showed a lot of fight and promise in this one, as they commanded a lead for 40% of the game. 

Rising star Kyshawn George led the way for Washington with 29 points on 10-for-20 shooting from the field, 5-for-8 from three, while pouring in seven assists and five rebounds. George's recent development has been encouraging, as he seems more aggressive and eager to score the basketball -- something that we haven't seen George necessarily do a whole lot this season. 

Since returning form injury, George averaging 17.4 points, five rebounds and four assists on 47.1% from the field and 36.7% from three in five games. Star on the rise. 

Additionally, Washington has strong contributions from Alex Sarr, Khris Middleton, Justin Champagnie, Bub Carrington and Marvin Bagley II.

Sarr has looked like an All-Star caliber center this season, and last night's performance was another example of why he deserves more consideration. 

The Frenchman scored 16 points and hauled in 8 rebounds in only 28 minutes, shooting 7-for-12 from the field. At only 20 years old, Sarr has endless potential and he is already growing in his sophomore year -- scary sights. 

Veteran leader Khris Middleton played great for Washington, scoring 16 points on an efficient 6-of-13 shooting from the field. Middleton's name has been circulating in trade rumors throughout the season, as the 34 year-old is on an expiring one year contract. 

Fun fact: All of Washington's bench players (Marvin Bagley II, Justin Champagnie, Will Riley and Jamir Watkins) had a positive +/- in this game. 

The one Wizard who had a poor game was rookie guard Tre Johnson, who struggled from the field as he shot 1-for-10 and 0-for-4 from behind the arc. However, Johnson's ability to create open looks for himself is encouraging and was put on display last night. 

As for Denver, Washington's young core was no match for Jamal Murray, as he scored 42 points in the game and 14 in the 4th quarter. 

Veteran guard Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 30 points on 10-for-18 shooting, and breakout player of the year candidate Peyton Watson scored 21 points. 

Washington's inexperience was glaring in this one, as veteran Jamal Murray continued to dissect them down the stretch. 

Luckily for Washington, they'll face Denver in a rematch at Capital One Arena this upcoming Thursday. 

However, Washington is set to travel back home to host the Los Angeles Clippers this Monday at 3:00 PM ET.