The only reason the Wizards don’t have the worst record in the league is that of playing fewer games than the Jazz. And knowing their track record, there are more chances of Ls than Ws in those. Barring a couple of surprise wins here and there, it’s back to the drawing board for Brian Keefe yet again. To make matters worse, NBA insider Michael Scotto has given a depressing injury update on forward Corey Kispert.

In their loss to the Nuggets, Kispert played 15 minutes, contributing 4 points and 2 rebounds. But with 5 minutes left in the 3rd quarter, he sprained his left thumb and left the floor. He didn’t return to the game. He was scheduled for further evaluation by team doctors upon returning to Washington. But Scotto has confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that he’s undergone surgery, which ends his season.

It’s not like this injury’s gonna do much damage anyway- they have no chance of qualifying for the playoffs. But the Wizards no. 24 has been one of their go-to shooters off the bench this season. With the main focus shifting to player preservation, this is not what they envisioned a few days ago.

Corey signed a 4-year, $54 million contract extension on October 21, 2024. According to HoopsHype, he was averaging 11.6 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 26.3 minutes per night, with a shooting line of .451/.364/.852. With Bilal Coulibaly’s fate written similarly, Coach Keefe has a lot of thinking to do. This could be his chance to introduce fresh faces ready to prove themselves- all in the hopes of a shift in dynamic from next season.

Wizards suffer embarassing loss to struggling Blazers

The second half of the season has been a bit topsy-turvy for the capital team. They’ve accomplished victories over a few .500+ sides like the Nuggets (x2) and the Timberwolves. But also went on a 16-game losing streak Jan 4th and Feb 2nd this year. Well, they’ve just lost their 52nd game this season- a poor 112-97 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers.

The Blazers themselves have little to play for this season. Barring a miracle run in their last 13 games, they’re not even going to qualify for the play-ins. Regardless of the past, this was Washington’s chance to send a message by beating teams around their pay grade. And what do you know- they got dominated.

“You keep coaching, you keep teaching and you keep showing on the right way to play and we use every moment that we have to take advantage of that. Sometimes in these hard moments I think you can grow. You’re learning how to get some resolve, some resiliency and we’ve shown that this year. I’ve been really proud of our group this year,” said Keefe earlier this season.

Corey Kispert’s injury is a bit of a loss for the Wizards, but it’s best they give him some rest in order to come backstronger next season. Do you think they’ll win despite his absence against the Utah Jazz tomorrow?