Charlotte and Washington can both create offense, but they reach it in different ways. Charlotte leans on Brandon Miller and Dennis Schröder to start possessions and on Naz Reid and Grayson Allen for extra scoring. Washington can put Trae Young in charge of the first action, then turn to Anthony Davis and Kyshawn George when the defense shifts. The contest may hinge on whether a missed shot truly ends the possession.
Young played a full role in Washington's win at Chicago after missing its Toronto loss, so that lower-scoring game is a poor guide to this backcourt. Charlotte's White and Knueppel remain out after missing the Miami game, while Reid is listed probable following a strong outing. Miller and Allen can punish Washington on the glass and from outside, but Charlotte's replacement guards also gave Atlanta repeated turnovers and its late scoring has been thin.
Young's passing should keep Davis and George involved through Charlotte's defensive changes. Washington can turn empty Charlotte possessions into organized attacks of its own. That's why I'm siding with the Wizards to win.
