I like the Sonics idea but let’s not underestimate that they had Gary Payton (the best defensive PG of his generation) and Mr. Sonic. Let’s compare them to our backcourt:
- Baron to GP: Similar tools, but not even close in intensity and defensive skill. Give Baron a 6 to GP’s 10.
- JR to McMillan: Again, our model is not nearly as good as the Sonics. JR’s never been a great defender (when’s the last time he took a charge?) and he doesn’t move laterally so well. JR gets a 4 and McMillan an 8.
- Ellis to GP: Monta’s got the tools but the mentality is not always there anymore (b/c of Marcus’ reasons). So, Monta a 7, GP a 10.

So it’s still a good idea, but our execution would still leave a lot to be desired.

I think the Warriors should strive to be like the Sonics team of the 90′s. Under George Karl their defensive was frenetic;there was a lot of double teaming,playing the passing lanes, and then recovering back to your assigned man.

Granted they had Gary Payton and Nate McMillan but with their current personal the Warriors could be a “poor man’s” Sonics.

Harrington — a good post defender because he’s quicker than most guys backing him down. But he makes a lot of mistakes with gambles and getting lost in the shuffle. Some of it is trying to learn the scheme, some of it is trying to hard to make a play. He has the physical tools to defend, don’t know if he has the desire.

Jackson — He reaches too much, looks for steals to much. His technique needs work, as far as his stance and understanding of angles. He just has a lot of bad habits. His strength, athleticism and long arms have covered up makes up for some of those bad habits.

Sarunas — He just isn’t athletic enough. He can’t keep his man in front of him, a must for a point guard. But he’s tough, so he can take some charges, force players to the help and hold his own if he’s posted up.

Azubuike — He has all the tools, and he has the desire. He just needs the experience to develop his instinct and understanding of defensive principles. He doesn’t care enough about offense to sacrifice his defense, so he has the right mindset. Let’s see how long that lasts.

Powell — Seems like a solid shot blocker because he can get up. Still too inexperienced to be a good post defender. Right now, he’s a good weakside helper with the potential to be more. Like Kelenna, he’s just trying to get on the court. So he’s willing to make his money by giving all he has to protect the basket and clear the boards.

I’ve been a Warriors fan for over 40 years, but I’m living outside the Bay Area and it’s a lot harder to know the true state of the team when my viewing is limited to televised games against the Sonics and a few games on national TV. So I really appreciate the quality and quantity of the insights you provide in your articles, Q & A forum, and blog. Your blog on the Warriors’ difficult but crucial quest to improve their defense was especially helpful. You’re right: it’s not going to improve dramatically overnight, but you made the light at the end of the tunnel seem a bit brighter by pointing out that guys like Pietrus, Barnes, and Ellis will be able to focus more on defense if JRich and Baron can ever get healthy at the same time. If you have more specific thoughts on the limitations or upside of Harrington, Jackson, Powell, Sarunas, and Azubuike as defenders, I’d love to hear them. Keep up the good work.

Steven Kent
Lynden, Washington