Key Match-up – George Hill and John Wall
There’s no questioning that John Wall was very deserving of an All-Star selection this year as he is having an absolutely phenomenal season. At 22.9 points and a whopping 10.7 assists on the season, both of which are career-highs, Wall’s improved play has been a key factor in Washington’s rise to power this year.
However, while Wall is quick as all get out, a terrific finisher and a great distributor, he isn’t exactly what you would call a sharpshooter. His 45.1 percent field goal percentage is much improved from last season, but his 30.8 percent shooting from deep leaves much to be desired.
And even on an improved field goal percentage, much of that has to do with better shot selection, not necessarily a better mid-range shot. From 5-14 feet away from the basket, Wall has shot just 34.5 percent on the season.
Nah, John Wall is not from this planet. #DCFamily pic.twitter.com/RmutqrpG36
— NBA (@NBA) February 25, 2017
Therefore, more than anything it will be important for George Hill to stay in front of Wall and prevent him from breaking into the lane or getting easy looks in transition. Of course, Hill and the rest of the Jazz have the luxury of having the Stifle Tower looming in the paint as well, but Hill’s individual defense on Wall will be vital.
While defense will likely be Hill’s biggest assignment in tomorrow’s contest as he seeks to shut down Washington’s leading scorer, the Jazz will also need him to be productive on the other end of the court. He did a good job last night against the Bucks as he finished with 19 points on an incredibly efficient 4-of-6 shooting night from the field, while going 8-for-8 from the foul line and hopefully that performance carries over.
With exception to the horrible showing against the Clippers prior to the break, Hill has played extremely well in six of his last seven games, which seems to be an indicator that perhaps he is officially and fully out of his previous slump. Such will be necessary for the Jazz to combat John Wall and the Wizards and to be able to stay in a good position in the standings during the final stretch of the season.