The Golden State Warriors took down the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night by a final score of 111-107 behind the huge performance of All-Star guard Stephen Curry, who finished with 24 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists.
While Curry has long been known for his offensive prowess and otherworldly three-point shooting acumen, Warriors coach Steve Kerr believes Curry deserves more credit for his work on the defensive aspect (via Marcus Thompson of The Athletic).
“I think Steph's defense this year has been totally overlooked. His defense has been fantastic.”
Certainly, the 32-year-old Curry has transformed himself in recent years from a previously limited defensive player to a decent defender who has some ability to switch on bigger guys. While he may not have the best length in the world due to his height, he puts forth tremendous effort on every defensive possession.
One notable trait of Curry’s that might fall under the radar on the defensive end is his non-stop motor. Just like how he uses off-ball movements on the offensive end to give himself wide-open perimeter looks, he uses the same relentlessness and speed to close off gaps in defensive, getting his hands in passing lanes and generally serving as a nuisance for opposing teams.
The two-time MVP is bent on having a bounce-back campaign after he missed most of last season due to a wrist injury.
The Warriors are in the bottom-third of points allowed per game at 112.6, but they are actually fifth in defensive rating at 109.2, so Stephen Curry and company must be doing something right.
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