31

TUESDAY

For us D.C. sports fans still coping with traumatic post-Joe Gibbs syndrome, December represents the final month of the annual 12-step program. It’s a time to find some mistletoe and kiss goodbye another ugly football season, a time to redirect our foolhardy optimism. That’s right: It’s time to root for the Wizards. Maybe it’s the eggnog talking, but I think the Wizards can win it all this year. Really. Their usual dog-and-pony, dwarf-and-giant show has been replaced by something akin to a competitive sports team. Jordan sinks jumpers. Stackhouse reverses layups. G-Wiz rides a little bike. Add to the mix local legends Patrick Ewing (assistant coach) and Juan Dixon (a daily reminder to cut Tyronn Lue) and how can we lose? I look forward to finding out in the New Year. Tipoff against the San Antonio Spurs is at 8 p.m. at the MCI Center, 601 F St. NW. $10-$290. (202) 432-7328. (Felix Gillette)