Washington Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal will start in Wednesday night's game against the Chicago Bulls after previously being listed as questionable, per K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago.
Beal listed as starter. https://t.co/ZQ7norpkeb
— K.C. Johnson (@KCJHoop) January 16, 2020
UPDATE: Bradley Beal WILL PLAY tonight! 🐼🐼🐼#WizBulls | #RepTheDistrict pic.twitter.com/LM2bJrtV99
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) January 16, 2020
Beal had been nursing shoulder soreness, but he will give it a go in Chicago.
The 26-year-old returned from a five-game absence on Sunday against the Utah Jazz, scoring 25 points on 11-of-25 shooting in just over 27 minutes of run. He had previously been sidelined by a leg injury.
There was a time when Beal was considered the NBA's iron man, as he played in all 82 games in each of the last two seasons. In fact, last year, he led the NBA in minutes per game (36.9).
However, Beal's run of 194 consecutive games played was snapped on Dec. 28, and the Wizards have tried to exhibit caution ever since.
Washington have dealt with a myriad of injuries this season. Given their recent experience with point guard John Wall — who might miss the remainder of the season as he continues to rehab from a torn Achilles — they are sure to rest Beal whenever possible.
The Wizards are still five games back of the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference standings, and a playoff run is unlikely especially if they elect to deal the likes of Davis Bertans.
Simultaneously, there are reasons to be optimistic. Washington are fifth in scoring and 10th in defensive rating, according to Basketball Reference. Though they are dead-last in defensive rating, they could see some improvement once they get healthy, especially with Thomas Bryant back in the middle.
Ultimately, however, Bradley Beal holds the keys. He owns a 32.5 percent usage rate and is clearly the team's best playmaker.
Beal and the Wizards hope to build some momentum with a win over the Bulls on Wednesday.
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