How to Assess Porous Defense? Look at the 2-Pt FG %

By Rob Wilson

Are you like me… wondering what happened to the defense over the past 3 games after a stellar effort versus the San Antonio Spurs?  The W’s simply don’t play defense consistently.  Occasionally, they’re motivated defensively and can put together a decent effort.  But, not in the past 3 games.

Here’s what’s interesting statistically over the past 3 games.  The W’s opponent has shot 61.8% from 2-point range over the past 3 games (65.7% Dallas, 61.9% Denver, 57.4% Memphis).  For the season, the W’s opponents are shooting 49.4% from 2-point range. 

I believe that the dramatic differential highlighted above (61.8% 2-point range last 3 games versus a 49.4% season average) is reflective of Don Nelson’s infamous Matador Defense. 

Finally, take a look at the 3-point FG % for these same W’s opponents over the past three games (only 32.2%).  This below average 3-point FG % over the past three games simply highlights that when Monta Ellis or Jamal Crawford are allowing the opponents a straight bee-line to the bucket, a higher 3-point FG % is not needed to beat the Warriors.

Comments

[Marco Bellinelli]

Interesting point. I wonder what the opponent's 2-point % is in games the W's win?