Doubts lingered after that tough loss, but the Wizards silenced their critics in their next matchup against the Orlando Magic. They may have lost 131-136.
These amazing efforts showcased their potential, proving they are a formidable threat for the next season. In the aftermath, Young fired back at the haters with a powerful statement.
“People can laugh about us now. In the future, I don’t think people are going to be laughing about us,” Young said (via The Athletic).
Bam Adebayo delivered the highest-scoring performance of the season, breaking multiple records in the process. He now ranks second all-time for the highest-scoring game by a player.
However, the manner in which he achieved this feat has raised eyebrows, particularly due to his 43 free throw attempts, which have drawn criticism from many around the league.
“It’s not something you want to be a part of and things like that, but you see everybody’s reaction and how he got it. We were all thinking the same way, how it was kind of weird, them fouling (with less than).”
“It was a weird thing. It wasn’t very Erik Spoelstra-like. He’s an unbelievable coach and has done some great things,” Young said (via The Athletic).
The recent loss to Orlando marked the Wizards’ 10th straight defeat. They currently sit at second last spot in the Eastern Conference standings with a 16-49 record. Looking ahead.
Whether that future arrives next season or years from now, Young is putting the league on notice. Don’t laugh too hard. You might regret it.