Revenge can be overrated in the NBA. Not here. The Wizards were embarrassed 102-80 at home last night by Eastern Conference rival Brooklyn.




Now Washington can do something right away about it as this is a back-to-back home-road series.




The Wizards were ripe for a letdown last night having posted impressive victories this week against the Spurs and Bulls. The Nets entered last night's matchup on a seven-game losing streak with trade rumors swirling around several of their players.




But the Nets played well, particularly Brook Lopez, and the Wizards had their poorest game of the season. Sensing his team lacked the necessary energy - which happens during the course of the long NBA season - Wizards coach Randy Wittman pulled his starters early. Only John Wall logged more than 26 minutes. He played 31 minutes.




I'm expecting a monster effort from the Wizards, who are the more rested team with the superior talent and stronger bench especially with Deron Williams out for the Nets. Washington's key players are in their prime. Brooklyn's top players are past their prime.




Normally the Nets wouldn't be able to match the Wizards' physical play and up-tempo pace. I don't see them doing it twice in a row especially off such a satisfying victory and considering how bad they've been playing with a 2-7 ATS mark in their last nine games. Marcin Gortat is much better than he looked Friday. He should be able to clamp down on the slow-footed Lopez.