Five Things to Watch: Spurs vs. Wizards

Tale of the Tape

Gregg Popovich’s Milestone Watch

The first thing to watch tonight is Gregg Popovich’s pursuit of history. With a win, Pop would tie Don Nelson for the most regular season coaching wins in NBA history. Popovich has been coaching the Spurs for 26 seasons, and holds a 1,334-696 career record. The Spurs have missed the playoffs just three times under Popovich, and have won five NBA championships.

Wizards’ Playoff Push

The Wizards are currently in 10th place in the Eastern Conference, and are just 2.5 games out of the final play-in spot. Washington has won three of its last four games, and is 9-5 since the All-Star break. The Wizards are led by Bradley Beal, who is averaging 23.7 points per game.

Bradley Beal and Dejounte Murray are two of the most exciting young guards in the NBA. Beal is a three-time All-Star, and is averaging 23.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game this season. Murray is a one-time All-Star, and is averaging 18.5 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game this season. Murray is also one of the best defenders in the NBA, and will be a tough matchup for Beal.

The Spurs and Wizards are two of the best rebounding teams in the NBA. The Spurs are ranked seventh in the league in rebounding, and the Wizards are ranked 10th. The Spurs are led by Jakob Poeltl, who is averaging 9.8 rebounds per game. The Wizards are led by Kristaps Porzingis, who is averaging 8.7 rebounds per game. The battle of the boards will be a key factor in determining the outcome of this game.

The X-factor in this game could be Keldon Johnson. Johnson is a second year forward who is averaging 12.2 points and 6.0 rebounds per game this season. Johnson has been a key contributor for the Spurs this season, and he could have a big game against the Wizards.