(Photo: Savannah Waggoner)
According to the final score, 117-114, the Washington Wizards were losers on a Wednesday night in South Beach. I'd argue that they were winners because of the glimpses of strong play that got from their non-starters that many would have drooled over last year. There are certainly points of emphasis that Scott Brooks will want to correct, especially on defense, but the no longer undefeated Wizards have reason to leave Miami happy.
Jason Smith Returns To Mid-Season Form
Through two preseason games, Smith did not play against Cleveland when Kelly Oubre Jr. took his spot in the starting lineup, the sweet shooting big man was just 1 of 8 from beyond the arc. Smith is able to contribute best, and make up for some defensive liabilities, with his spot up shooting, which was not on display early in the preseason. Smith put the past behind him and had a game high 20 points on an efficient 7 of 8 shooting including 4 of 5 from three-point land. The veteran big will give the credit to his teammates for putting him in good positions, but regardless, being able to knock down an open shot is one of the most important weapons in today's NBA. Brooks previously said that he would like to have his opening night starting lineup playing together by the fourth preseason game so Washington may indeed start Smith next week against Philadelphia.
Kelly Oubre Jr. Active As Ever
Continuing some strong play from last game, Oubre was hustling all over the floor against the Heat. He drew multiple offensive fouls by stepping up and taking charges and also made a concerted effort on the glass. The wing's regular and postseason best rebounding mark was 10 and even though tonight will not technically count as a career-high, 14 boards in under 26 minutes is a pleasant surprise. Although Oubre only shot 3 of 9 from the field and missed all 4 of his three-point attempts, it is almost more impressive that the 21-year old was still able to focus so well on the defensive side of the ball, which will make Brooks happy.
Tim Frazier Delivers In Debut
After nursing a Grade 1 groin strain for the past two weeks that has kept him out since the middle of training camp, offseason acquisition Tim Frazier made his debut for the Wizards. Despite just 2 of 7 shooting from the field, Frazier took it upon himself to attack the rim and score the go-ahead bucket with 5.1 seconds to go, which would have been the game-winner were it not for a Jordan Mickey three-pointer seconds later. Of course, 28.6 percent shooting from the field is not impressive, but it was Frazier's role as the team's point guard that was eye-grabbing. The former G League star handed out 9 assists in 21 minutes.