Game 56: Phoenix Suns (33-22) vs. Dallas Mavericks (32-23)

[surfpuckmd]

I agree with all of that, but none of that is what I’m talking about. I think Kleber is FAR superior at PLAYING DEFENSE. I don’t mean just on the perimeter, I mean, positioning his body in order to make it difficult on the offense IN GENERAL.

I care way more about that than rebounding, and I always have.

It's a philosophical debate.  Does it really matter if you contest the shot when the offense gets the rebound anyway?   

I do think Gafford commits some dumb fouls.  I think his rim protection is useful though when we have multiple bad perimeter defenders on the floor who make it easy to get to the rim.  I also like his energy and toughness.  We signed Markieff Morris for toughness even though he's useless.  Gafford brings toughness, intensity and some strong rebounding and elite finishing.  

I'll concede Maxi is better overall defensively if rebounding doesn't count.