Q12543 wrote:Remember the much-maligned defense we had a few years ago when we won 40 games? Oh, those were the good ole' days:
This year's starting 5 defensive rating - 112.6
Pekovic-Love-Brewer-Martin-Rubio - 103.2
OMG, the short-armed ground bound duo of Love+Pek and the matador known as Martin managed to be nearly 10 points better!
I'm not arguing that the unit you listed was good defensively, but they were smart in their approach -- not fouling, cleaning the defensive glass, running an efficient offense leading to less transition opportunities for opponents. That squad's problem was bench play, if I remember correctly. Nonetheless, I wish this current group of players had an approach that they stayed consistent with. We'll see a couple game minutes of lock-down team defense, and then give up a 10-0 run -- or worse -- out of no where. For me, the reason that happens is because of our youth and lack of legitimate veteran play.
Also, everyone knows I'm not high on Cole Aldrich, but I'd at least give it a thought about throwing him in the starting lineup. Perhaps his defensive focus -- although not always affective -- would be good for the rest of that unit. And on the other unit, Dieng could get more opportunities on offense. It's the role that I continue to believe will be best for him if this team is going to try to contend for anything worthwhile. I think this could especially help in early fourth quarters when our reserves are in the game. We'd have Dunn, LaVine, Muhammad (or Rush?), Bjelica, and Dieng on the floor more than likely. That's a good blend, in my opinion, and could be the bridge for our starters to hopefully come in and either slam the door or pull ahead.
That's the one starting lineup switch I'd be interested in. I have no desire to yank LaVine around. Most of this board knows that already, but I'm reiterating that stance.
Also, this is just a side thought, but I'd coach Towns to stop popping out after setting a screen. No more of that. We know he loves to hang around the perimeter and jack up shots, but that's not utilizing his gifts to their fullest. I think it lets the defense off the hook. Nikola Pekovic was so damn effective by setting solid screens and then rolling to the front of the hoop. Granted, Towns doesn't have Pekovic's build and strength, but he's longer, a lot more skilled, and is much better finisher. I think everyone is aware that Towns can make perimeter jumpers, but he needs to live in the paint. He's our best points in the paint threat. He also can't draw fouls if he's 24 feet away from where contact is likely. That's where he's going to be a monster. It's funny, but that's also how you get the most out of Ricky Rubio. He sure as shit can't score out of the P&R, but somehow, some way, he just finds an angle to lead the rolling big into an advantageous spot to score. We need more of that and less of Towns camping out behind the three-point line. Let's get back to simple and sound fundamental basketball.
