Uriel
01-30-2013, 04:13 AM
Kawhi Leonard, Spurs (No. 15): Leonard showed a rare commitment to defense as a rookie that suggested big things were to come this season. His raw statistics — 9.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 1.3 assists — haven’t been jaw-dropping, in part because of injuries, but there’s no question his individual numbers would be significantly larger if he played on a team that relied on him more. Instead, he’s fitting snugly into his “three-and-D” role, hitting 46 percent of his corner threes and ranking among the team leaders in defensive rating. San Antonio has improved from No. 11 in defensive efficiency last season to No. 4 this season, and Leonard’s play and instincts on the wing deserve a slice of the credit.
It’s difficult but not impossible for perimeter players primarily known as defenders to receive All-Star recognition. Iguodala found his way to Orlando in 2012, the Pacers’ Paul George was selected this season and Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum should be a candidate in coming years. George and Batum took big steps forward on offense this season, something that can be expected from Leonard once Manu Ginobili and Duncan hang it up or play even less. Assuming he can pair with Tony Parker to continue San Antonio’s tradition of winning, there’s every reason to believe Leonard will get his due, even if his game lacks the flash and pop of other small forwards. Coach Gregg Popovich’s ability to construct a winning system around his top players should pay huge dividends once Leonard grows into bigger shoes.
http://nba.si.com/2013/01/29/all-star-game-2011-draft-kyrie-irving-kenneth-faried/
It’s difficult but not impossible for perimeter players primarily known as defenders to receive All-Star recognition. Iguodala found his way to Orlando in 2012, the Pacers’ Paul George was selected this season and Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum should be a candidate in coming years. George and Batum took big steps forward on offense this season, something that can be expected from Leonard once Manu Ginobili and Duncan hang it up or play even less. Assuming he can pair with Tony Parker to continue San Antonio’s tradition of winning, there’s every reason to believe Leonard will get his due, even if his game lacks the flash and pop of other small forwards. Coach Gregg Popovich’s ability to construct a winning system around his top players should pay huge dividends once Leonard grows into bigger shoes.
http://nba.si.com/2013/01/29/all-star-game-2011-draft-kyrie-irving-kenneth-faried/