If you thought he was playing really good defense, apparently lots of people agree with you: http://www.blazersedge.com/2017/4/1...-defense-nba-playoffs-warriors-blazers-game-1 As someone who has bitched incessantly at his (and Lillard's) poor D, I see this as a very positive development. If he can keep this up then the Thomas/Dumars comparisons will stop being so much of a reach.
An easily see being one of those all motor pesky guys who uses his mouth to upset opponents. The calf raises bit on Green was great.
When CJ plays poor defense it's usually because of a lack of effort. He has the ability to play defense. I think Dame usually puts more effort into defense than CJ, but he's just not good at it.
Lillard's defense was also ratcheted up. Both those guys brought their A-Plus games yesterday. Gotta get 'em some help.
dame isnt as bad at defense as everyone tries to say. his team defense seems to suffer because of the system, but his 1 on 1 defense usually looks pretty good. i love our guards and dont buy into this we need to trade 1 bullshit i love that both can play off the ball and run point and i love both of their attitudes.
I've seen steady progress in C.J.'s defense all season. He's gone from bad to decent and seems like he's committed to turning it up in the post season. C.J. is a smart guy. I know it's a cliche, but he really is a student of the game. He's constantly studying film to learn how to become a better player - and then he goes out and does it. It's no coincidence C.J. was the overwhelming choice for MIP last year, and even after making the leap, has continued to improve substantially this year. This is why I have never been on the trade C.J. bandwagon. The guy is already amazing and just keeps getting better. He puts in the work and it shows. BNM
I agree with this. There are times that I shake my head at a bad defensive play by CJ, but honestly that happens with all players who are not in there for just defensive purposes. Players coast at times on one half of the court. But CJ is not that bad of a defender when he wants to be. And seldom is his lack of size an issue. How many bigger guards can stop CJ without help? Good offensive players will score on anyone. It still comes down to solid team defense and having 1-2 really good defensive teammates. i.e Iguodala and Green. I know easier said then done.
I think we're seeing some results of playing against Klay in the second round last year. Nothing beats experience trying to defend one of the best shooters on the planet.
If CJ can become an above average defender, then he'll be be a top 3 SG behind Harden and Derozen. His offense is far better than Klays. The dude can become a decent defender, and I think he wants to be. Would go a long way in making us an elite team.
I read the title and thought this was going to be another trade x player thread. I was pleasantly surprised.
