The Wizards are finally almost at full strength
The Washington Wizards are almost totally healthy for the first time since opening night. Forwards Otto Porter and Drew Gooden are set to return any day now, giving Washington the depth they thought they'd have all year long.
Here's more on the good health-related news, per The Washington Post:
Drew Gooden III (calf) and Otto Porter Jr. (hip) took part in the session, giving Washington 13 available players for practice for the first time since November. Porter’s participation was limited, but it constitutes significant progress for the third-year forward and Wizards Coach Randy Wittman said his playing status would’ve been a game-time decision Saturday against the Jazz. Porter injured his right hip against the Milwaukee Bucks on Jan. 13 and has missed four straight games. A right hip flexor strain plagued Porter’s rookie season, but his current ailment is different and not nearly as severe. He previously was sidelined three games because of a thigh injury in late December. Rookie Kelly Oubre Jr. has started in Porter’s place.
Porter is averaging 12.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game this season. All numbers are significant career highs, but his work on the defensive end is equally important to Washington's success.
The Wizards need athletic wings in order to play small ball, and Porter unlocks multiple lineup combinations that can really help Washington soar. And, um, Gooden is cool, too.
This is great news.
