Analyzing Wizards' Lineup Combinations: What Is, Isn't Working

After a promising start, the Washington Wizards have slumped to a 4-9 record on the season, good for 12th in the East. 

Coming into the year, the Wizards were saddled with increased expectations — this was supposed to be the team that lifted Washington out of its malaise. But after starting 4-3, the team has endured a six-game losing streak. 

Washington is a team still figuring out its identity, especially in terms of sorting out which lineups work. Let's take a look at some takeaways from this season's data so far, and what it says about which units are working. 

1) The team needs to get its best five out as often as possible

The Wizards' best lineup that has seen substantial minutes is Trae Young, Kyshawn George, AJ Dybantsa, Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr. That unit has generated a net rating of 15.3 — a very good number. 

This should come as no surprise. That five is probably the team's best players, and it makes sense that playing them together would yield the best results. 

After ponying up big money for Trae Young, and swinging trades for him and Anthony Davis, Washington is officially out of a hard rebuild and trying to win. If that's the goal, this lineup should be together on the court as often as possible. 

2) Trae Young is critical to the team's success

Trae Young has had a tough start to the season, at least from a statistical standpoint. The former Atlanta Hawks star is averaging 19.7/3.1/8.8, but he's shooting south of 40% and has struggled to generate efficient looks.

Yet, despite his issues, nearly all of Washington's best lineups feature Young. There are no other reliable playmakers on the roster, so his passing and ball handling is absolutely essential to the team's success. 

It won't always be pretty. but the Wizards need to keep Young on the floor as often as possible if they're looking to rack up some wins. 

3) Anthony Davis at center works

One of the Wizards' most efficient lineups is Trae Young, Kyshawn George, Bilal Coulibaly, AJ Dybanytsa and Anthony Davis. What's interesting about that lineup is that it features Davis — who notoriously does not like playing the five — at center. 

Washington wants to keep Davis happy, as he's likely their best player. But if they want to win, it might be pertinent for the team to move away from two-big lineups at times, instead letting Davis eat in the middle.