Grizz at Wizards- Keys to the Game

No one can deny that last night's loss was tough, but it's not a reason to have a let down tonight versus the Wizards(20-28). With the Gilbert Arenas problem behind them and the addition some new faces at the trade deadline has the Wizards playing their best basketball of the season. They traded Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison and received Al Thornton and Josh Howard, who recently suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Those new additions seemed to revive the struggling club as it's topped 100 points in four straight games and have won 4 of 5. The Grizzlies have split their past six games at the Verizon Center but won 113-97 in their only trip there last season.

The Grizzlies no doubt have more talent than the Wizards, but the Grizz have been struggling lately, and the Wizards have momentum on their side. Tonight is by no means an easy win for the Grizz. We'll have to earn this game on the road. Here are my keys to success:

1. OJ vs Mike Miller. Miller and Mayo will always be referenced together since the big trade that sent OJ Mayo to Memphis and Mike Miller to Minnesota. Mayo has played every game since the trade and is a model of consistent contribution. Miller has battled injury and missed many games but is a crowd favorite who can score from anywhere on the court and gives his all every night. Miller's size is both an advantage and disadvantage. It's an advantage because he can get his shot off with ease over Mayo. It's a disadvantage because Mayo can generally get him out of position and drive or shoot as he pleases. OJ has been hot lately, and the Grizz need him to win the scoring battle tonight.

2. Energy. With a tough loss last night and tonight's being the second night of a back to back, our starters may be out of gas. We will not only need energy from the starters, but also the bench has to play a huge roll tonight. Even if they don't provide 20+ points, the bench must provide energy and rest for the starters.

Those are my two keys. It's hard to come up with more because all I can think about is last night's loss. It hurts to see

Kobe's game winner as ESPN's Top Play #1. Last night's loss is not an excuse to have an off night versus a team with less talent. Let's hope the Grizz show up ready to compete and get back about .500.

Go Grizz