The Wizards’ shooting stars

The Wizards went 44-38 last season with an average offense. Their offensive rating said as much: An average of 103.3 points per 100 possessions put them in the three-way tie for 16th in the 30-team NBA.

Scoring points ultimately boils down to taking and making shots. The Wizards were efficient shooters around the basket and from behind the three-point arc last season. But they were inefficient at long two-point shots, leading the NBA in mid-range attempts but making them at a below-average pace. The signing of Paul Pierce should bring much improved shooting from mid-range. And if the Wizards can take fewer inefficient shots and improve in areas that help create good shots— such as ball movement, pace, spacing and limiting turnovers — this team could be shooting for the stars instead of shooting itself in the foot. RELATED ARTICLE