The Warriors defense is on another level!

The Warriors defense has been dominant and Draymond Green is the frontrunner for Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) in 2022. This video is a detailed film room study of the Warriors zone defense, their successful scheme, and the defensive play of Steph Curry, Gary Payton II, Andrew Wiggins and Kevon Looney, and how they've been able to shut down players like Kevin Durant thus far this season.
Support at Patreon: / thinkingbasketball
Book: www.amazon.com/Thinking-Baske...
Podcast: player.fm/series/thinking-bas... or at www.stitcher.com/podcast/ben-...
Website: www.backpicks.com
Twitter: @elgee35
Ben Taylor is the author of Thinking Basketball, a Nylon Calculus contributor, creator of the Backpicks Top 40 series & host of the Thinking Basketball podcast.
Stats courtesy:
www.pbpstats.com @bballport
www.basketball-reference.com
stats.nba.com
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Footage in this video is owned by the NBA and its partners. It is intended for critique and education.
Music by Alter Ego (Lost)
#ThinkingBasketball

[@ThinkingBasketball]

Here's my full Draymond profile from a few years go: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5yvnoVpoMZng9E I also love see all the comments pointing back to older defensive tactics (08 Celtics, Izzo at Mchigan State, etc.) -- some of you coach at varying levels around the world and have great insight on this stuff.

[@PineappleSquuid]

Love your channel! One of my favorite in the basketball niche.

[@CAPAE]

👏 MORE 👏 DEFENSE 👏 VIDEOS 👏 PLEASE!

[@CAPAE]

16:21 *says Rasheed Wallace; shows Ben Wallace*

[@jordanharris3358]

@@CAPAE clearly he was referring to Ben

[@WNPass]

Top 10 defenders

[@ColinGLogan]

The clip of Kerr defending against Payton in college is the perfect example of what makes this the best basketball channel on KZbin

[@connorlee1868]

Honestly. When I saw that I was thinking the exact same thing

[@ooogyman]

Agreed. The Xs & Os analysis is always top-notch, but giving OG GP the cameo before transitioning into his son playing D is elite-level narrative-building.

[@kwelitysoul]

I love it. Kerr is a great coach and learned from the best.

[@JD-jz5gu]

@@kwelitysoul Still can’t believe that people wanted him fired last year, smh

[@gjwilliams4098]

11:53

[@johnjhermiecruz8971]

Steve Kerr reviving old school basketball with modern innovation.. Like triangle and two, 1-2-2 zone and more.

[@bmebuzz8718]

I honestly think after the Raptors Nick Nurse coach off he went and revamped his defensive playbook😂😂

[@sharifbrown3567]

@@bmebuzz8718 The Raptors didn't beat the Warriors in 2019 due to their offense being good, it was because their defense was one of the best ever.

[@7Kibz]

@@sharifbrown3567 they beat the warriors because more than half their starters were injured

[@bmebuzz8718]

@@sharifbrown3567 thats exactly what i was talking about dude😂😂nick nurses defensive schemes were amazing and i think after that series he got in his bag

[@bmebuzz8718]

@@7Kibz it happens Raptors still played great defense

[@beaubergeron6369]

WOW. Draymond going nuts with a 21 point lead so his teammate learns - just incredible.

[@Lemon_Drums_USA]

Hahaha, I saw that clip too. I was like damnnn. This dude is intense AF.

[@Lemon_Drums_USA]

I really love that the refs have chilled out on him. I think they may of watched a ton video and saw he was right to complain on those bad foul calls. In a way he holds them accountable. He plays text book defense, and goes vertical on his block attempts.

[@dextermontague4768]

he learned it from tom izzo

[@arizonabusinessleague918]

I didn't see the clock of the game left, but these days I've never stopped watching a game with a 21-point difference even in the late 3rd, before 2010 I would turn the TV off after a 10-point lead in the 3rd quarter.

[@Lewash24]

Draymond is the definition of "You can play basketball efficiently without scoring"

[@johnangeloperez9866]

yes, and warriors produced another one with Looney.

[@mambamentality3141]

​@@johnangeloperez9866facts

[@l-SlimReaper-I]

You can contribute or produce winning plays that don’t show up in the stat sheet

[@chukwudifuagbasi4373]

Looney is overrated ​@@johnangeloperez9866

[@Toad22484]

This channel has the best analysis of any sport I've seen, so methodically and entertainingly done.

[@nkosiamakosi7078]

This is and Alex Rollins NFL are my two favorite sports channels on KZbin. Alex Rollins breaks down the NFL with same deep analysis as this channel does basketball. You should check it out.

[@honzaslowi]

This and also alex rollins are my favourite channels for sports analysis, nobody does it better than these two

[@ayushgupta866]

@@nkosiamakosi7078 Would suggest Brett Kollmann as well if you want some quality NFL breakdowns, he's also suuuuuper good!

[@balitangkalusugan19]

because this guy is a REAL ANALYST. Not like the ones you see on TV and talk shows whose real purpose is marketing and hyping.

[@lukaslambs5780]

Could not agree more. This is the real deal in every sense imaginable.

[@andydrews4439]

This is phenomenal top tier basketball analysis content. Thank you my good sir.

[@djakademics1410]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYKXfZiqhLdgpMU thank me later👌

[@kevingalvan5805]

My favorite basketball channel probably and that’s saying a lot

[@afghan_senju5616]

Exactly bro this guy is amazing

[@robinguo9432]

@@meisya7181 to 8⁶⁶68r⁶ is

[@robinguo9432]

@@meisya7181 ⁶⁶e8⁶8r⁶8r⁶r8⁶8⁶8⁶8⁶8⁶8r⁶r8⁶

[@TheBigtrev1234]

As a Minnesota sports fan, I'm so happy for Wiggins ending up with an organization he loves to play for and seeing how he's grown there in such a short time is so good to see

[@chikipu225]

mate sounds like you're a true fan. respect.

[@anomali5330]

Respect

[@myweirdsecondchannelwithap9070]

Now he’s a champion

[@silewis9396]

@@myweirdsecondchannelwithap9070 Talk about a situation change

[@natenelson2180]

Same here!! Happy he got out the dying organization

[@hexagonns6632]

Draymond Green is definitely at least a top 10 defensive player of all time, he is a absolute defensive mastermind.

[@nachonachoman]

On defense he's reminds me of a coiled viper. So cognizant of where the threat is at all times and ready to strike at a moments notice

[@laurocoman]

He really pushes his team outwards because of how well he can take his position. The defense covers a large ground because of him.

[@orange_cat]

What's cool is that he doesn't have to think about it at all. I played college hoops and was maybe half as good as Draymond at best. Just mentally turn on "basketball mode" and the body does what it does.

[@TheRealAbraxas]

Draymond might honestly be the defensive GOAT. Who else can seamlessly switch and guard every position like that. His abilities as a defensive floor general are also GOAT tier

[@rishabhanand4973]

@@TheRealAbraxas to answer your question, probably his main competition for the defensive goat title, dennis rodman.

[@jesusshuttleworth6301]

Those rotations are next level, man. I can see why the Warriors are one of the top defensive teams.

[@libraalibaba]

This is why you need Superstars that can control and slow up the tempo of the game. While also if need be make some difficult shots.

[@localneo-graphic4647]

I have a feeling it's going to get exposed later in the season and playoffs, unless Klay comes back in top form. I don't think they'll be able to deal with a healthy Memphis OR Denver, even though I think they matchup well against Phoenix. I'm honestly expecting a 2nd round elimination. Kerr has shown he can always come up with great innovations, but he's not a great adapter in the playoffs, and if Draymond literally gets away with sitting in the paint for ENTIRE POSSESSIONS against Dallas, Cuban is going to go ballistic and threaten the League again with his rigging proof from years ago.

[@4luvofgod]

Pat Riley used same system with the Knicks years ago rotational defense nothing new

[@WINDSORTOWNSAV]

@@4luvofgod It is not just the coaching. The players have to execute. Lol they have better number than the team you just mentioned.

[@t4d0W]

@@localneo-graphic4647 Healthy Denver is manageable as they will have is Jokic and Murray. Past the 3rd best player, the quality of talent in that roster decreases considerably. Since they have their bench starting as well, they won't provide much of a punch especially when Jokic is off the floor. And we all know what the Nuggets plus/minus looks like without Jokic on the floor (hint: very dismal). Memphis may provide the real challenge but I still don't trust their best defenders being able to execute and not get into foul trouble. Its funny you write that the Suns is a great matchup which they will be but given the regular season performances, its not like the Warriors rolled over and played dead either. They did adapt well throughout that one game and seem to have found an answer to the Suns smart switching. And it wasn't like the Warriors didn't try take away the Suns options either on offense. Overall I trust a healthier Warriors team in the playoffs with Kerr's decision making against those teams you mentioned. Especially when they have found out more about their team throughout the season than those other 3 teams still trying to find their real identity (well maybe the Suns with their defense as well).

[@MindfulAttraction]

Your videos are the type I can't just watch while doing something else.

[@BossKing1243]

Fr

[@shieldon530]

facts if i try to cook or play video games i keep rewinding to catch everything then get so frustrated and put the side activity away

[@Kingzuala]

so true

[@othmanhawasly]

That's very true, I focus on his videos more than my college lectures 😂

[@josipmarasovic7084]

Man i see u on all good nba videos. NOT clickbait seems u are a real fan. Good to see people like u cheers from croatia

[@B_Hubbz]

Did not expect Curry to be giving instructions on defense when Draymond is off the floor. Truly a franchise player and leader.

[@Weavileiscool]

People underrate Curry‘s defense. Not saying he’s great but he can hold his own and lead the team when Draymond isn’t playing.

[@dta1329]

I’m a woman that is transitioning from a casual fan to really trying to understand plays/strategies and appreciate the game as an art. I really appreciate your breakdown. I actually understood everything. You really help me understand WHY the Warriors are so good -especially the last point you made about transition/live point averages. Super cool stuff - Thanks!!!

[@tistelnilsson]

Welcome to the fan side of life!

[@camilawoodmansee4073]

SAME HERE

[@Alex-kd5xc]

I love that this video comes out not too long after draymond’s statement about nobody caring for defense because they don’t understand how it works. I thought I knew how important defense was but I learned so many things from this one video. I hope Draymond sees it so he can know there’s people who really understand and can appreciate the work the Warriors defense does.

[@ThinkingBasketball]

I think he has a point

[@exquisitemeat5845]

We hear, pretty often, how we need to appreciate Lebron, Curry KD, Giannis etc. and their greatness while we can. I'd add Green to that group. A singular defender, we're not guaranteed to see anyone like him ever again. Like Ben once said of Lebron, he reads situations , only this time on defense and at an all time great - level, so quickly and accurately that circumventing him is always difficult and to ignore him is impossible.

[@localneo-graphic4647]

Green would be a career role player with a forgettable career without Kerr and GSW. We've seen what a Green team looks like, and it's not pretty. He's getting that 'Rodman boost' by playing with great teams his entire career. Both may have boosted their teams, but both teams also boosted his legacy and earnings. There's a major difference between a GREAT player and a GREAT player on a GREAT team. Just imagine how many 'great' TEAM defenders and offensive non-scorers had footnote careers playing for non-contenders. I'm sure there's plenty. I'm sure if Green got drafted by the T-Wolves, he'd be 'Draymond Who?' Personally, I despise him. I mean, who ACTUALLY kicks players in the nuts, with no accountability or remorse? Especially when another player got suspended for doing it ONCE during the same postseason. If he got his due suspensions, maybe it would've been OKC in the Finals. That entire postseason was so rigged I legit haven't given the NBA a dime since, but that's a different story.

[@3ladeRunner]

@@localneo-graphic4647 we saw a team with a bunch of rookies and journeymen. Not representative at all. Plenty of great players have been on shitty teams and guess what they’ve ended up with shitty records.

[@focusedallday5620]

@@localneo-graphic4647 thank you! Green is definitely a starter, but when the real stars of this team went down we saw Draymond for what he really was. People don’t like to take into account the psychological affect that happens when you’re getting 3’s drained on you. It almost makes the other team quit. Now tell me, how easy is it to defend a team that knows it will lose?? I think we’ve given Green the appropriate respect, but being mentioned in the same conversation as LBJ and Curry, stop it.

[@luisenriqueperezperez3193]

@@localneo-graphic4647 Are you and that Focused All Day aware that even last season the Warriors were STILL a top 5 Defense? They were Mediocre last year because while they were a Top 5 Defense they were 20th in Off Rating. Putting him with LBJ and Curry is an overstatement, saying that he needs to be appreciated like those guys isn't, as Draymond certainly is the BEST defender of his generation.

[@jackoneill8654]

@@localneo-graphic4647 You're right, the Ws have been incredibly fortunate...Klay benefits from playing with Curry and for Kerr. I think it's a miracle that the Ws were able to unload Biedrins' contract and, AND get Iggy. And I'm SO HAPPY that the Ws got Draymundo!!!

[@frankl3518]

I love Draymond's game. All the people saying trade him for Ben Simmons know nothing about basketball. Green's effort, toughness and leadership are irreplaceable. Ben is younger but Draymond is a better version of Simmons. Not quite as athletic but just as good if not better at passing and defending.

[@geordiejones5618]

Draymond gets no love. He's a huge part of why the Warriors got to the finals 5 straight years.

[@brentstahl204]

Draymond is much smarter than Simmons. The Warriors' defense requires great awareness and constant communication.

[@marc2465]

@@brentstahl204 yeah draymond's iq is on another level

[@timmckinnon1233]

The reason why people say he should be traded is exactly what you said, they don't know about basketball like they should. Ben Simmons is a spotlight player, people notice what he does when he has the ball. Draymond Green isn't really that noticeable to those who don't really study or notice the game enough, because he is usually off ball on defense directing his teammates, causing them to have the highlight defensive play. Then on offense, whenever he does have the ball, he is always setting his teammates up for amazing plays and even off ball, he is setting screens, telling his teammates where to go and giving them great opportunities to score. That's why his points per game is relatively low but his assists are high, because he leads his team and makes his teammates ten times better when he is on the court (even off the court when he's walking through plays with them). He is an asset to the team, and frankly I don't know how they would thrive without him.

[@spongecake951]

lmao ben simmons doesn't even play basketball XD all comments irrelevant

[@braytonnelson-goldman8516]

“We could spend hours dissecting all the of the different pick and roll coverages” Still Waiting

[@evenezerqjose]

I almost don't notice these things when watching live, the Warriors' defense are a work of art.

[@oldthug2309]

i notice it easily because im just that epic

[@thunderb00m]

@@oldthug2309 it should go in your autobiography titled "lies I tell myself"

[@greedyglo]

At least you actually watch the games opposed to stat watchers

[@oldthug2309]

@@thunderb00m no its not a lie i swear

[@stanleygreen9073]

💯💯

[@kasunkandauda4593]

Man do I love videos about defense. I would definitely watch a one hour long study about pick and roll coverages if you made it !

[@JYNaRa2fly]

Me too, hopes he does it even if it's broken up in 3 vids for a series

[@inidbil7277]

I second that. Anything warriors basketball analysis.

[@gabrielrojas2090]

Same here

[@leowoodard8860]

wow. didn't know there were this many defense nerds out there. brings a tear to my eye i'll tell ya what

[@leowoodard8860]

fellow defense nerds***

[@redspin2ify]

I remember 2 seasons ago when everyone was clowning him for his triple singles with no curry or klay playing with what was basically a g league team. He's always been underrated. What he said in an interview about Gobert winning defensive player of the year rings true. Draymond defends 1 through 5, Gobert can be cancelled out of the game if you go smallball. Goberts the best rim protector in the league for sure but draymonds defensive IQ and team defence is just on another level that makes him in my opinion a more valuable Swiss army knife of a defender for a team

[@lilJaundice]

Unbelievable video. Truly some of your best work, and that’s high praise with the bar you’ve set. The reference to Steve Kerr playing in Lute Olson’s 1-1-3 defensive scheme was so perfect it made my jaw drop. That’s next level research and preparation. You’re a one of a kind channel my man, thank you for existing and making these videos on a free platform

[@jamesh7469]

I feel like this defensive scheme is a much needed evolution designed to combat the heliocentric and general star based offenses we’ve seen over the past 5-10 years. The Warriors are basically pre-rotating to the strong side and betting that the teams they play don’t have the ball movement, chemistry, or versatility 1-5 to consistently swing the ball and beat them on the backside of the play. Teams are too polarized with their construction with a lot of non threat role players who aren’t empowered to put the ball on the ground and be aggressive- look at 5:20 where Johnson is too hesitant to make a play on the short roll. In the past several years, modern offensive schemes have been leaning away from complexity and more into basic actions that allow their stars to be creative and drive the offense - see the death of the triangle and all the Harden/Luka/Lebron/Trae/Dame schemes. Couple that with the increased player shuffling leading to less chemistry and continuity around the league, and the new foul rules that tilt the scales against ball dominant stars, this revival of defensive scheme is primed to take the league by storm. I love it

[@jahimuddin2306]

Nice profile pic.

[@GrizzlyGrippz]

i mean to be fair Johnson is a rookie so im not surprised he didnt make a play there.

[@pg13pacernation30]

Draymond anchored 3 championship defensive teams. If it wasn't for him, the Warriors would just be a fun offensive team that didn't win anything.

[@Lemon_Drums_USA]

Great points, they’re playing the game like a professional poker player. They’re playing the percentages and just hedging their bets on the non shooters

[@lancecheng]

I've never thought about it like this. Super nice macro insight on how the shift towards ball dominant stars and players moving to different teams has led to a potential weakness in less versatility and diversity of offensive threats (not just the star player being dangerous). Ironically I think GSW is also heavily reliant on Steph Curry as the engine of their offense, yet they don't limit themselves to that and incorporate a lot of player and ball movement and a lot of read based options in their plays.

[@vmrabello]

I heard several times back when wiggins was a timberwolf that he was bad or sluggish on the defensive end. But now it seems that he's actually a monster! I think an analysys on his progression as a player (which might be quite underrated) would be very interesting!

[@konradhomiak3700]

Rusty Buckets did a video on it

[@ciaojay7025]

Most of the time a good culture can change a player, and that applies on Wiggins

[@ITzCw4dE]

Yea, he is a great two way player. He definitely has more jump in certain games but has makes a difference regardless. Him and Klay will be unbelievable together

[@Dragonds53]

Another focus on Wiggins video would be entertaining

[@xndr9127]

Warriors has good culture and great coaching staff. Just look at their role players thriving.

[@HashBrown99Gaming]

I always thought Draymond was randomly yelling at people but he's actually shouting sensible stuff on the mistakes of his teamates. I didn't know he was this knowledable of the game. Respect to him. Great video

[@InfamousAWJ]

His IQ is super high and he’s the best communicator.

[@Reedinho]

This is the beautiful thing about being a sports fan in the modern age: In-depth analysis of the subtleties, giving everyone a greater appreciation of the game

[@kronmeicrumbs]

Thinking Basketball pushing out content faster is a reason to keep living.

[@Eggmancan]

Fantastic video. I love watching Dray on defense because he's always shouting and pointing lol. One thing you could've mentioned when talking about the fast break points at the end is how important Dray is here. His handles and passing allow him to run the fast break, so if he gets a rebound he sprints down the court and looks for an open shooter/cutter. He's the key that unlocks the Ws on both defense and offense.

[@kingofgrooveness]

I was just thinking this. The reason he has such high assists for his position/stature is because he can push/handle the ball off a rebound or steal and pass ahead or dribble straight into a defender for a handoff

[@localneo-graphic4647]

I hate watching Green play because he literally repulses to me. Idc, call me a hater, but he gets REWARDED for his CONSTANT BITCHING when he should be one of the most T'd up players in the League. Seriously, there's one possession IN THIS VID where he LITERALLY SPENDS AN ENTIRE IN THE PAINT POINTING! He spent about 3 seconds defending a passing forward, that's it. It wasn't even a 3 second violation, it was an 'entire possession' violation. Just imagine if Rudy Gobert had a better scheme, better defensive wings, and refs that literally let him sit underneath the basket as long as he wanted on D.

[@galo2099]

Here's a video that aged extremely well.

[@darthdarovit]

What I love about the zone the warriors use: it’s not meant to win a game, just an interaction or possession. It’s works as a mixup to kill momentum or extend the advantage.

[@olamideolanrewaju6581]

They learned box and 1 from playing the 2019 raps in the finals. That was the best playoff defence since the 04 Pistons. Two former DPOYs and 3 other elite defensive players made that team nightmarish it is honestly impressive that Curry was able to average 30 against that defence.

[@chicagorainydayz3611]

facts

[@ShotgunRainstorm]

Nurse is a top tier dynamic defensive coach, i wonder how much damage he can do with a team as coordinated and as versatile as the curretn warriors

[@olamideolanrewaju6581]

@@ShotgunRainstorm Forgot to mention Nick but facts. He just is not afraid to try anything on defense which can throw off an opponent. Such a genius coach.

[@saiwaqa2573]

lol they are NBA coaches kerr didnt learn it from the raptors what a dumbass thing to say.

[@Anthonydu01630]

It’s funny how people praise Curry for averaging 30 against the Raptors but nobody give a shit when Lebron do the same against the SPURS of Duncan, Kawhi, Ginobili, Danny Green ect, the GSW of Draymond, Iguodala, Klay, KD, Curry ect or the Celtics of KG, Rondo, Pierce, Ray Allen ect … When Lebron play against all time great team and lose, he is a looser, when Curry lose against a good defensive team, wooow, he still averaged 30 lol .. SMH 🤦‍♂️

[@RicardoMil0s]

Another thing about the drop coverage play @1:49 is that Draymond does on Nurkic is that Draymond basically knows which players on the opposing team are shooters (good and bad) or non-shooters (pump fake into a kick out or immediately passing the ball). Draymond knows that Nurkic is a non-shooter so he drops off and subtly switches with Otto Porter to get him closer to the play at the point of attack by getting onto Robert Covington. From there, depending on what direction GPII makes Simons go, Draymond can immediately react and make a defensive play. Just subtle genius BBIQ being executed perfectly.

[@vin-cc9nk]

"We could spend hours talking about all the pick and roll coverages / zones" And I'd watch it all in a heartbeat! Excellent work as always.

[@KristenNguyen009]

Would love a break down the on 04 Piston defense. Wish these type of analysis existed back then.

[@jaybird4571]

One of the best defenses of all times

[@myweirdsecondchannelwithap9070]

@@jaybird4571 you sure it’s not THE best?

[@jaybird4571]

@@myweirdsecondchannelwithap9070 honestly, it probably is.

[@hobbits24]

Not sure about the Warriors defense being the best ever, but this channel is definitely one of the best if not the best basketball channel out there, amazing stuff as always!!

[@fried_riceee]

They’re not even full at potential, missing another key wing defender and Wismen’s progression will definitely boost the defense. Imagine finally having a real 7+ ft player on the team to finally give day day some help 💀

[@goated.content]

@@fried_riceee Bro Wiseman was not a positive on either side of the ball last year. He essentially held them back. I give him 1 or 2 more years to become elite

[@BmooJ27]

@@goated.content he wasn’t good last year cause they were bad and let him play. simplifying his role on offense and defense would work great for the team. Defense doesn’t take forever to become elite if you got on court coaching like curry and Draymond

[@lik7953]

@@goated.content I don’t think wiseman improves their defense, although I do expect him to improve his communication and IQ which should help later this year. Klay however, is a huge bonus for their defense. His athleticism may be worse coming off an injury, but like draymond, klay is a very high IQ defender with great communication

[@goated.content]

@@BmooJ27 Lmao what? He wasn't good cause he wasn't good

[@micahkiyimba8641]

Draymond is one of the most intelligent Players in NBA history. The way he reads offenses is just crazy and amazing to watch. I think Draymond is as good defensively as Curry is offensively.

[@markfourtwenty9897]

At least as good but IMO Draymond's might be better...He always kill my team and if you only look on the stat sheet , seems like he do nothing but if watch full game you know he's the culprit....What's underrated about Dray's game is his ability to make all his teammate 'Fall in Line' which is the most important thing in team sports....

[@ciaojay7025]

@@markfourtwenty9897 He's keeping the team intact in their defensive schemes.

[@InDepthBaseballYT]

curry such an underrated team defender man

[@ReCharredSigh]

One thing sticks out to me on this video that ppl haven't touched on: steph communicates a lot on defense too. We often think only the "qbs on defense" communicate (in this case, most would say draymond on the warriors), but it's obvious from these clips that steph calls out a lot of coverages and tells his teammates where to go a lot too. Also, those overloads on the strong side remind me a lot of the 2008 boston celtics defense.

[@Narokx]

This is the best defensive breakdown I have ever seen. What a modern defensive scheme! Modernizing classical concepts, adapting perfectly to the evolution of the offensive game

[@rulnacco]

Now *this* is what makes KZbin fantastic. This is truly excellent, detailed and insightful analysis about something most fans have no clue about--and many coaches, definitely a lot of players, have no real grasp of. Wonderful, enlightening work!

[@HOE-rv6ie]

Dreymond is the best Point-Forward with defense specialization and 3 point shots. His court intelligence is on another level. 🏆

[@sudharsanak10]

Coming back here after GSW wins the NBA finals and happy to see that Warriors survived the big men on the floor and ate them alive🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@dennisrossonero]

This was a great video. Defence is above all a teamworking skill, but having said that, Draymond should be a hall-of-famer, i don't care about all-star appearances.

[@jdelgado216]

He probably will but most likely not a first ballot

[@BenjaminFranklinFF1706]

@@jdelgado216 Rodman only has two all star appearance so yea rings and defensive accomplishments will get him in

[@lik7953]

@@BenjaminFranklinFF1706 yea I think draymond will get in, especially if he gets another dpoy and ring. He might not make it the first year he’s eligible, but he’ll make it in eventually

[@futurehofer1564]

he already is a hall of famer, his career aint even over and he is a 3x champ, 1dpoy, 6 all defensive teams, was a huge part of the Greatest Team Ever. He is a HOfer and lets just say no one else will wear 23 for Golden State too.

[@simonanderson4858]

Absolutely, and NBA 75er as well

[@jan279]

This man once led the league in steals & rim protection efficiency, no other player has ever done that.

[@MegaJuned123]

You love to see the synergy within the organisation and how every player is actively working on both ends of their game individually for the same goal

[@ooogyman]

Your breakdown of Xs & Os have always been top-notch, but adding the extra historical context of other all-time great Ds, Coach Olsen's influence on Kerr in Arizona, and OG GP's cameo before talking about his son is some next-level narrative-building. Best basketball channel on KZbin.

[@TheLoxely]

Such a good vid. The Warriors defense has been nuts this year and for sure translates to heaps of transition plays & points. Sick watching it get truly broken down. Not too many games left without Klay...Please let me watch the Splash Brothers on the floor again. And with this D? Sheesh

[@SupremeUnicorn]

and on top of that, you add size and skills with Wiseman…. sheeshhh. they’re gearing up for post all star and playoff. incoming sweeps again 💪🏽

[@SupremeUnicorn]

and on top of that, you add size and skills with Wiseman…. sheeshhh. they’re gearing up for post all star and playoff. incoming sweeps again 💪🏽

[@mattiasaffi6112]

Some of the concepts here remind me of pressing schemes in football/soccer, where teams dominate space in order to limit a player's options overloading specific zones on the pitch. Do you think it would be possible to apply some of this concepts in full-court press, maybe even counter pressing (using football/soccer terminology) after a defensive rebound?

[@LoganNagol]

Basketball and Soccer schemes actually overlap quite a bit. And it makes sense they are essentially given the same conditions except one has to put ball through a circle and one has to put ball through rectangle. Soccer is just a bit more spread out in formations

[@denizakin5645]

Full court press in football is only effective because of the amount of players and the size of the pitch. If you'd press in basketball I'd think that you are too susceptible to passes leading to quick 2s. I think it could be a good idea to implement at the end of a game tho

[@mattiasaffi6112]

@@denizakin5645 i think it would be doable (not all game and only with specific teams though) with the right personnel. Take CLE for example: markkanen contests the rebound trying to cover passes to the middle, okoro and Garland cut off passing lanes to the sides and mobley and Allen take care of possible long passes. I don't know... at least It would be interesting

[@vbvbvbv775]

@@mattiasaffi6112 i agree it would be very interesting but also extremely difficult to execute. One thing that makes counterpressing much easier in football (along with many other aspects) is the offside-rule, which basically allows the defending/counterpressing team to cut the pitch in half and take away a lot more space.

[@mattiasaffi6112]

@@vbvbvbv775 it's not easy to kick a precise 40 metterà long ball under pressure though (and offside only applies if the receiving player is in the opposition's half at the moment of the pass), just like it's not Easy to throw a precise full-court pass under pressure (unless you are jokic of course). And you must consider the 8 seconds rule which may have some impact

[@t4d0W]

Besides Green's resurgence as a DPOY candidate, I've been reading about Wiggins in the comments and personally he was bound become this player he is now. He doesn't have the first option responsibilities he could not efficiently fulfill with the T-Wolves. Steph and Klay are the cornerstones on offense and Draymond is the defensive captain. So Wiggins just has to keep it simple and execute within the team concept as the 3rd/4th option. Nobody is going to task him to do more than he can and by virtue of that he is closely overachieving. Talent is talent and the Warriors are making it work with him in that decreased role that he has exhibited to excel at. The good news is when Klay comes back he may comfortably take more of an offensive load while Wiggins will take Klay's old role of sticking to the opposing teams' best perimeter scorer. All while he and Draymond can lead the second lineup and just gash opposing teams bench players.

[@mariohostios]

Strength, length, lateral movement. A middle linebacker playing basketball with a coach level understanding. Just stop undermining yourself Draymond.

[@Shiyaku93]

The Warriors have been so fun to watch this year. Dynamic and you can really see the chemistry on the court. It's just fun to watch these guys having fun... and winning

[@lamer1k_920]

Man, I hope this vid will get like 2 mil views, fans need to stop disrespecting Draymond, he CAN say that he is the greatest defender of all time, as much as we hear overconfident statements from NBA players, Draymond saying he is the goat defender is not one of them. I also want fans to realize that Steph is far from defensive liability nowadays, and that Steve Kerr is definitely not overrated

[@Dotsetc]

I never understood the disrespect for Draymond. He's guards the entire floor and it's unbelievable to watch. The Warriors defense has been that good for years solely because of Draymonds skill set. By that I'm not saying that all the players dont do their part or that Kerr his defensive schemes arent important asf, but this all stands or falls with Draymond's abilities. IMO the only player that comes close to this was Kawhi in his defensive prime and KG although he never had to deal with such a huge amount of pick&rolls, switches etc.

[@ooogyman]

@@Dotsetc Dray's communication doesn't show up on the stats sheet, and his constant lobbying of the refs must grate opposing fans. But his stints on TNT and his interviews on Chips and his podcast have done a lot to make the most casual of fans respect his IQ.

[@kendawooda]

If anyone is ever watching a warriors game just look at draymond when they’re on defense. The sheer amount of communication and awareness from him is astounding

[@Swaggattack71]

A great “this person knows ball” litmus test is their opinion on Dray and how important they feel he is the Golden States success.

[@back2back379]

Casuals: "But but... Points Rebounds Assists are all that matters!"

[@run8024]

This also explains actually why Looney is in the starting role. There is no mismatch ups with him. (You can ask Harden). Also never thought wiggs can play defense like this.

[@Obeyfizzy]

This gives me more appreciation for players like lebron, luka, and other elite playmakers bc it takes one to break down a defense like this when they lose its to teams who are ball movement heavy not iso based teams

[@jere9100]

This aged well

[@kamalab2332]

Damn ben, you just made draymond my favorite player. I mean I knew he is a great defensive player but your breakdowns are something else. It's hard to see his impact in real time with how fast the game is played.

[@azka1503]

clicked on this so fast

[@jeofffrancisjayme7145]

Same

[@lathenthomas2422]

Me and you both

[@pipolchamp8205]

idgaf what anyone says, this is the best basketball breakdown show there is, even with espn and all of the mainstream media lol, it's so easy to understand without feeling like i'm being spoon-fed. and it's so damn entertaining for some reason.

[@jojobanks7809]

Amazing breakdown! I’ve always heard about draymond’s impact but your in-depth analysis really shows it in a whole new light!

[@futurehofer1564]

Wiggins is an All Star and an All Defensive player this season, he clearly deserves both

[@Adaan415]

Was looking for this comment. People are sleeping on Wiggins for sure, like he gives u 20 a night with GREAT defence.

[@oryanlewis2239]

Can we get another vid on jokic he’s taken a giant step this year defensively and it would be interesting to see how much he’s carrying this year without Murray

[@sharifbrown3567]

How has his defense improved this year? I don't watch Nuggets games, so I'm a bit intrigued.

[@asd6484]

@@sharifbrown3567 He’s been good at jumping passing lanes, and he’s still good at that. He’s become an elite PnR defender (used to be pretty bad, and got abused in the Phoenix series), and his rim protection is better than ever. His advanced stats think highly of his defensive impact because of these improvements, but it’s also inflated by Denver’s bench being really bad (and them not having a real backup C, thus giving up a ton of shots at the rim). I don’t think his defensive stats are sustainable, but he’s still definitely improved, and will need a competent roster around him to play at this level in the playoffs, else he’ll just be too gassed from carrying the offense.

[@sharifbrown3567]

@@asd6484 nice, didn't know he was bad at PNR defense, but good to know he's adjusting.

[@asd6484]

@@sharifbrown3567 Yeah his IQ is really allowing him to be an elite defender without having the athleticism of typical rim protecting centers. But it’s still possible for him to be attacked by the offense come playoff time.

[@DEClimax]

@joceja23 yeah, i like watching him but there's a lot of players in the league worth talking about. maybe we can revisit him if it looks like there's an incoming MVP snub, lol.

[@brandons9913]

Fascinating breakdown 👏🏼 So many versatile, intelligent players and amazing schemes with a singular talent like Draymond anchoring it all. I learned a lot watching this video!

[@josealex121]

Thank you for this comprehensive analysis of the Warriors' defense. The way you highlight the combination of those individual talents and the well-designed and careful coaching helps us better understand that what we are seeing right now is not a coincidence but the result of a lot of work and disciplined effort. This motivates us two think of basketball in a more conscious way.

[@Nemanja949]

I love it! More defense videos pls, as a casual watching NBA its very hard to understand the defensive side of the game so these videos are much appreciated

[@trevorhawks4577]

Along with the Lute Olsen schemes, I can see some Izzo principles in there as well. Particularly with not over helping on drives and good defense leading to easy offense. Really cool to see some of these CBB things translate to the NBA and then go next level 3D chess.

[@ThinkingBasketball]

Great call!

[@andyyoung4476]

This aged like wine.

[@billyy]

Love that this analysis is so insightful yet so accessible!

[@edwardemmanuelg.libunao186]

So enlightening. 👏 Thank you so much for clarifying the Dubs defense so well. So many "experts" miss out on the fact that their defense is elite, built on communication, hard work and a keen reading of what the other team is trying to do.

[@clearhythm1]

One of the best analyses of Warriors basketball I've ever seen. Surprising to realize the Warriors are that good this year too. Thanks for putting this together!

[@danteeudora6330]

This is one of the best videos on the Warriors I've ever seen. And believe me as a Warriors fan I've watched hundreds.

[@j.evanwade4130]

Really in-depth, focused video, with great commentary and explanation of more nebulous basketball concepts, to the less informed. Very impressive. I learned a ton just watching this video, and learned a lot about defensive spacing and theory.

[@EmmanuelPerez88]

Absolutely love this channel. I always followed basketball, but didn’t really get into it until a couple years ago. I come from the baseball world where there are more stats than make sense lol, but this channel has done a awesome job of breaking things down and using stats without drowning in it. Wish you could drop one every day lol. But keep up the amazing work

[@andrewlutz572]

This is so damn good. I almost fell out of my chair when he got Kerr guarding GP1 in college in that Lute Olson 1-3-1. Well done Ben!

[@braydenwilliams4478]

You’re my favorite channel on KZbin, I can’t lie. I am always so intrigued with how well you dissect the whole game of basketball. Keep it up, you’re appreciated.

[@cecilybriggs5776]

I love watching the Warriors play and as someone who is new to watching basketball I have a hard time identifying what makes a team good and subsequently fun to watch. Your videos help me understand the genius behind the Warriors high level playing. Thank you so much!!!

[@camrose306]

Already loved his game but seeing Draymonds passion even being up 21 gave me more respect ✊

[@jdr_8549]

Draymond very amazing and underrated offensively, his ball handling, passing and playmaking ability, big part of warriors system and being aware of the right screens to make along with the passes and DHO's, Split Actions, He's push ups in transition, full court pushing the pace looking for shooters and cutters. Very amazing, Just as good as magic johnson tbh, along with his athletic finishing ability in the paint. Old draymond can shoot, it all about finding that shooting rhythm like 2015-16 days and he can still shoot good still

[@kevinmoore4237]

These are by far the best educational sports videos I've ever found. The text, the graphics, everything makes really complex stuff intelligible and much more enjoyable for casual fans.

[@samsmith8086]

Thank you for all the content! We are all so grateful and blessed to have this information for free. You are truly an inspiration!

[@Howdidhenotseeme]

Draymond might be the most UNDERRATED player ever. His impact is subtle most of the time. Warriors have always has a true big 3, the best fitting big 3 ever.

[@dark_winter8238]

He is in no way underated as he has always been in the spotlight. He is rated roughly where he should be. You would barely know who he was if he played for the king's his whole career.

[@Howdidhenotseeme]

@@dark_winter8238 And that right there is why hes underrated, because of idiots like you. Draymond qbs the whole defense. He had a weak roster last year as a top 5 defense in the league. Nothing about Steph or Klay makes Draymond ELITE on defense

[@thebronzebomber1985]

Did they 3peat though ?

[@clayton5469]

Dray should easily be the DPOY as of this moment, and Kerr should be the coach of the year for his sets

[@taikimitsuishi6274]

This is a true "thinking" basketball analysis!! This video explains so many tiny details and I wouldn't miss anything!! Thanks for uploading this!!

[@rileyp1506]

You can tell this team spent the entire summer together

[@des8893]

The way the Warriors overload on the strong side against great iso scorers is like in football having a safety play "over the top" to help a cornerback. That allows the CB to be more aggressive or as you stated it to put more pressure on the ball knowing there is someone to help if he gets burned.

[@t4d0W]

Yeah it seems like both sports have well defined league defensive identities. NFL is about letting offensive teams live with the run and underneath stuff while building a 'roof' on their downfield passing attack. Ideally for NBAs best defenses it is to take away the strong side and show them that they have another shot creator with handles who can try kill them. Which also goes to show the impact of Jrue's arrival with the Bucks and how his impact as the 2nd scoring option matters and his ability to least put the ball on the floor to do create a shot. A huge upgrade before when all they had was Eric Bledsoe who couldn't do much else with his skillset.

[@niggilywiggily]

idk why soccer doesn’t have content like this i really wish it did this content was the reason i started watching basketball and nba because it’s so entertaining

[@NotYoGaming]

wow... so well explained, even to a slightly more casual fan like myself. that clip of kerr being utilized in nearly the exact same defensive scheme as the one the warriors currently run explains so much about why kerr is currently one of the best all-around coaches. i've always admired his flow offense but seeing his current defensive schemes really helps me understand why he got selected to be team usa's coach. thank you for the great video! definitely subscribing after this

[@diverseconscious5262]

One of the greatest teams ever!!! I’m glad they finally got their respect! Always liked the Warriors because of Wilt and Barron Davis! Sixers because of Dr. J , Andrew Tony and Ai! Now Embiid!!

[@MauricioBarragan]

watching high-level defense gets me going. I feel my adrenaline rushing and my heart pounding. i hate it when anyone scores on me. made it my life goal to never let anyone score. I'm not the best but in random pick-up games, no one scores on me.

[@psychedelicpsychosis6954]

I'm the same way . I kinda rush through offense , (in one on one games I take fast shots without a conscious cause I know I'll just stop the other player if I miss). It's fun like a mind game. I like spotting other guys points in 21, just to start guarding everyone and limiting their points then going on a little run to win lol. Exhaust everyone else then win easily. So watching Draymond , Lonzo, Jrue Holiday and other elite defenders fires me up.

[@jlking0098]

same bro. i got the exact same mentality.

[@ciaojay7025]

I'm not a good offensive player. That's why I take my pride on defense too. I'm not that frustrated when I'm not hitting my shots but it really upsets me if someone scores on me. After that I will just make him my target on defense. I will just stick on him, denying the ball on him. And seeing that person who scored on me gets frustrated since he didn't get the ball really makes me happy

[@access87665]

wow. such a beautiful breakdown. honestly. the best ive ever felt playing basketball (idaho, highschool) was being an anchor to a predatory team defense--so thrilling. which is why i love this analysis! its because of the depth and nuance of this breakdown that i got to experience/witness a level of perfection i would have otherwise missed...i appreciate seeing defense lauded like this.

[@shamptown]

Beautiful basketball. Brings a year to my eye because I am in awe and because my team can only dream of being this good. Wonderful analysis. Love the channel!

[@eissaalsaidi3252]

In my opinion Draymond is one of the most underrated players. He doesn't get the enough credit he deserves.

[@joashann1276]

Egoless team = great communication

[@matthieusaade3616]

Draymond is totally not egoless 😂.

[@Dreadheadezz]

As a data science enthusiast and lover of sports this channel is a gold mine‼️‼️

[@michaelknibbs]

I love watching basketball. But (coming from the UK) had not grown up playing or watching the game. This was a real education for me - I’ll probably rewatch it a few times. It’s so much more enjoyable to watch a game with some context and appreciation for the work and thinking that these guys put in. Thank you.

[@pen5666]

now imagine the intensity of that defense in the playoffs

[@isaacdisanto1020]

Fantastic breakdown, and just brilliant defense. I knew the warriors were getting creative on defense this year, but I didn't know the extent. My biggest fear as a warriors fan is that they're showing their hand a bit early in the season, and that teams will have a chance to figure it out and counter it by the time the playoffs roll around

[@ooogyman]

I'm not so worried about teams figuring out their schemes, but I am concerned about how the Warriors can handle a big dose of bigs like Ayton, Jokic, or Embiid who can exploit any Warrior in the paint not named Dray, Looney, or Wiseman. Once one of those guys can get in the paint with the ball, all that switching is pretty much nullified.

[@Anthonydu01630]

@@ooogyman How can you forget Giannis, Lebron or even AD or Gobert lol .. they are the most dominant player in the paint, i would also put Zion in that category but he is injured and out of shape, in a non playoff team …

[@t4d0W]

The 'showing of hand' is more like the Warriors defensives scheme works good enough to stymie regular season competition. Remember its not like other playoff hopeful teams aren't watching tape and noticing who they have for personnel to address matchups. As someone noted a good shot creating big can really put a dent on this switching scheme and exploit the Warriors being pretty small at the rim. Of course the Warriors at this rate probably won't draw any of those teams with such bigs early and those teams (Lakers and Nuggets) got other health issues among other things to prove they are 100% ready for the post season.

[@mattpiers4589]

I don’t think it’s much of a concern. This creative type of zones are only used occasionally to kill offensive momentum. And as the video said, they can often disguise whether they’re in zone or man-to-man because of the their versatile personnel.

[@floatingfacedown9691]

This still might be my favorite piece of informational basketball content on youtube. The attentiveness to film and keen insight into big-picture strategy really is amazing. This channel makes watching basketball so much more fun. Thank you guys.

[@phomo561]

This is the best analysis I’ve ever seen on defensive play in basketball 🏀 absolutely beautiful work!!