Preview: Wizards at Nets, April 5, 2026

BROOKLYN, N.Y. (Interstat) — Two teams at the bottom of the NBA standings will meet Sunday when the Brooklyn Nets host the Washington Wizards at Barclays Center.

The Nets (18-59) and Wizards (17-60) have combined for just two wins in their last 20 games, making this a key matchup in the race for draft lottery positioning. Brooklyn holds a one-game lead over Washington for the league’s second-worst record.

Washington enters on a five-game losing streak, including a 152-136 defeat at Miami on Saturday. Rookie guard Will Riley continued his strong late-season play, scoring 31 points in 37 minutes. Over his last 10 games, Riley is averaging 18.0 points and has scored 20 or more in five of them, providing a bright spot in a dismal Wizards season.

The Nets are reeling from a 141-107 home loss to Atlanta on Friday. Veteran center Nicolas Claxton led Brooklyn with 16 points and five rebounds in that defeat. Claxton has been a consistent interior presence, averaging 9.7 points and 5.9 rebounds over his last 10 contests.

The season series is tied 1-1. The Nets won the most recent meeting 127-113 in Brooklyn on Feb. 7, while the Wizards secured a 119-99 home victory on Jan. 2.

Both teams have struggled defensively all season. Washington allows a league-worst 124.3 points per game, while Brooklyn ranks 29th, giving up 121.1 points per contest. Offensive fireworks could be in store, as the Wizards have surrendered at least 120 points in nine of their last 10 games.

For Washington, Riley’s scoring burst will be central to any chance of an upset. For Brooklyn, establishing Claxton inside and limiting turnovers will be priorities. The Nets have committed 15 or more turnovers in eight of their last 10 games.

Following Sunday’s game, the Wizards begin a four-game homestand Tuesday against Chicago. The Nets will remain home to face Milwaukee on Tuesday.