2021-2022 ROSTER TALK: [ARCHIVED]

[Dundalis]

Yes, I think Brunson is a team-oriented guy who tries his butt off on defense. Totally unafraid to stick his chin in the paint and take a charge, moves his feet, etc. His size will always be a challenge, but he's nowhere near the negative people assume around here, imo, and he'll probably continue to improve on that end as he gains experience and confidence.

I agree with this, and if it wasn't Wood that we picked up, I'd have no problem with it. But little things add up when you consider the collective group on the court implementing whatever defensive scheme is in place. The teams defensive rating I believe, started tanking the second half of the season and in the playoffs. There's a lot of talk about Kidd being able to magic defense from a team with little actual defensive or athletic talent, but at some point you need actual talent. It's a big question mark right now, and it's not just about rim protection like everyone keeps repeating. We have like 4 clearly above average defensive players in the rotation and 2 of them don't even play that much (and a lot would like to see traded). Maybe a borderline 5th if you count Maxi.