Another Blown Win

The Wizards' strengths in the Chicago series have turned into the worst of weaknesses against the Pacers. After a Game 1 win in Indiana, the Wiz have dropped 3 straight -- 2 at home -- and face a 3-1 series deficit upon their game tomorrow.

What happened?

1. Paul George
2. Roy Hibbert
3. The third quarter
4. The inability to step on the Pacers' throats

Ariza hasn't been effective in stopping Paul George, who set a playoff career high with 39 points in Game 4. That's three consecutive games where he's been more productive, efficient, and effective in leading the Pacers' backcourt.

Hibbert is awake. He heard the criticism after his 0-0, 5 foul Game 1. No more, he says. A 28-9 Game 2 effort was followed by a 14-5 Game 3, then 17-9 in Game 4. He has 2-3 blocks per game, but more importantly, is severely altering Washington's shots in the paint, which is almost as good as a turnover (especially if Andre Miller is driving).

The Wiz Kids are getting DOMINATED in the 3rd quarter; Indiana has outscored them by an increasing amount in each game's 3rd period (6, 6, 14, 17). Coming out flat, ceasing to run a transition offense, and settling for contested jumpers are all contributors to this statistic.

It's no secret that the Wiz were up by 17 at halftime and 19 after a quick bucket to start the 3rd. And then came the collapse.

In spurts.

Up 17... up 10.

Up 14... up 7.

Game-changing moment: Up 9, Bradley Beal misses an uncontested, reverse right-handed layup. Indiana hits a 3. 

Then the Pacers cut it to 2, and at that point, it was anyone's game.

If the Wizards don't learn how to "Spur" their games, making a 20 point lead into 30, effectively cutting off their opponent's oxygen supply, the next level will never be reached.

Am I still confident about the Wizards' chances, down 3-1?

Yes.

But at this point, I predict Indy in 7.

Game 5 prediction: 91-83, Wizards