2020-2021 ROSTER TALK: Archived

[Jason Terry]

I hear you, but I'm really starting to re-evaluate how I look at defense.   I haven't really put a firm finger on it, but it's like .... this Clippers series ... I've been hearing how great Patrick Beverley and Zubac are on defense for years, and they're absolutely unplayable in this series specifically because of their defense.  And that's mostly due to the greatness of Luka and what a mismatch nightmare he is  .. but every contending team has their freak that can find their mismatch and exploit it.   The Clippers were supposed to be the 1 team that can absolutely match up and shut down any team on defense in theory ... they're just loaded with elite defenders and switchable long wings.   And ultimately, when the rubber meets the road in the playoffs, it means nothing.    The Hardens, Lukas, KDs, etc. that you have to get through to get to a Championship still get the shots they want, when they want.   So some of these high level defenders are overrated, or how we think about defense is overrated or re-evaluate how we think about defense.   Maybe it's more about having defensive versatility than just being a high level defender for your position.   Because Patrick Beverley is (supposed to be) a high level defending point guard, and he's getting lit up like a Christmas Tree because he's having to guard a 6'7" 250 ball handler.   To me, offense is the bare minimum requirement, because you got to keep pace with these freaks and match the shot for  shot.

Nice post. I’m there with you and think there are many who are questioning how to see the game now that it has evolved even more. I think the real focus should be put on the regular season and playoffs being two separate sports. You play totally different from the regular season. Suddenly only 8 guys are worth playing. It’s all about matchups and adjustments. Every coach on the sideline last night talking nothing but defense in the huddle. Yet the offense has become different/easier around the league. It seems that the real two way players are at a premium. Harder to get by as a one way specialist now. Why a guy like Batum will be so valuable this offseason 

As far as defense though. There’s not much being played league wide. It almost feels like Luka is a Peyton Manning type player and we are in some era where the league will need some time to adjust to the offensive euro invasion and every team in the NBA playing Nellie Ball. Not to mention the huge leap nba front offices have taken over the past several years. Really exciting times. Is defense more valuable because it’s rare or is offense more valuable because it’s a necessity? 

I kinda lean to team defense being more valuable than individuals. It’s become easier to exploit certain players offensively so having a stable of players who can always see the court in the playoffs seems important. Guys that can guard multiple positions are key