After Friday’s night game I suggested that Gilbert should take some time off to rest his knee.  Well, I’m an idiot.  Gilbert looked explosive off the dribble, and used that to get to the line for 12 free throws.  Gilbert’s knee is still affecting his jump shot (33% shooting against Atlanta)  but he was able to get the rest of the team going offensively and had two beautiful drives for layups near the end to put the game away.

But here’s the most interesting aspect of this game to me: Gilbert’s defense.  Obviously, Agent Zero isn’t known for his defensive prowess but he helped hold the Hawks’ three point guards (Acie Law IV, Tyronn Lue, and Salim Stoudamire) to a combined for 4 points.  Granted, Atlanta isn’t exactly known for its play at the point, but I still think that Gilbert’s D was one of the keys to the Wizards’ big win yesterday.

As Gilbert adjusts to his limitations due to injury, he’s developing parts of his game that he didn’t need as much before, which will only help Gilbert and the team as they move forward.  The first win is in the books, and they’ll go for number 2 Wednesday against Indiana.