The Washington Wizards were touted as one of the elite teams in the Eastern Conference coming into the 2017-18 NBA season. Despite their lackluster 5-4 start, the Wizards have begun to look impressive as of late thanks to the stellar play of shooting guard Bradley Beal.

Beal has stepped up in place of four-time All-Star John Wall as the Wizards' top performer over the last few games. His recent surge has even compelled NBA great Paul Pierce to dub him as the best shooting guard in the East over the Cleveland Cavaliers' Dwayne Wade, according to Chase Hughes of NBC Sports.

“I think he should be an All-Star this year without a doubt,” Paul Pierce said. “With Dwyane Wade holding that crown for years, being the top 2-guard, I think Bradley Beal should be holding that crown now as the top 2-guard in all of the East.”

Paul Pierce's recommendation certainly carries some weight considering he was among the best at his position during his time as a player. As for Bradley Beal, it is safe to say he may have surpassed the veteran Wade.

The Wizards scorer has put up scoring totals of 40, 36, and 38 points over the last three games. Meanwhile, Wade has floundered on the bench for a struggling Cavs squad. If Beal can continue to put up big numbers, he may very well be on the way to his first All-Star selection in a depleted Eastern Conference.