No such thing as the perfect player, but if a choice had to be made for a position that called for little to no error it would have to be the point guard. The range is truly unique from five foot, nine inch Nate Robinson, who plays larger that some of the biggest centers in the league, to rookie sensation Michael Carter-Williams who’s lengthy six foot, six inch stature helped him become a rising star in his NBA debut.
While the playoffs are in full swing there is plenty of talk about who is the best point guard in the NBA. The discussion will quickly bring up outstanding players like Chris Paul and Russell Westbrook no doubt, but what about Stephen Curry and Tony Parker. All are spectacular players in their own right. Each player with extraordinary talents specific to their own style of play, but which hold the title of a true point guard?
A true point guard, a player that embodies the presence of a coach on the floor, a play caller and maker, someone who sees the entire court, his teammates, along with the basket, and all while controlling the tempo of the game. Plenty of responsibilities fall on the shoulders of one player alone. Not to mention they are often the player called upon in close game situations, expected to make buzzer beaters and seemingly impossible shots. Derrick Rose, injured star point guard of the Chicago Bulls, once stated in an interview that he often practices trick shots to boost his confidence to make tough shots in game situations.
San Antonio has a weapon that goes by the name of Tony Parker. A long time veteran in the NBA often overlooked. Although Parker isn’t averaging the highest of numbers, he is the heart of the Spurs success along with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili. Since Tony is a little smaller he relies on his “Tear Drop” shot when going to the basket which is nearly untouchable. Parker’s years of experience have perfected his traditional style of play. He is so quick and his timing just right. Some may say the Spurs and Parker are boring to watch, but they are extremely successful. Tony Parker’s goal is to always shoot 50 percent and is at 49.9 percent for the season. Tony has taken on the role in more recent years to be the player with the ball at the end of the game. Coach Pop has instilled plenty of confidence into Parker lead his team on the court. San Antonio will hope to continue the series against Dallas undefeated Wednesday at 8 p.m.
Stephen Curry has made his mark in the Golden State over the last four years with his impeccable shooting. This season he has shot 42.4 percent from beyond the arch. Curry’s 24 points per game and 8.5 assist on average has led his team comfortably into the post season. Exceptional vision of the floor helps Curry get his teammates involved. His precise passing gets them clean looks to the basket as well. Not only can Stephen shoot and incorporate his teammates, his quick feet and soft touch leads to many opportunities penetrating the paint which are shots he’s unlikely to miss considering his 47.1 field goal percentage. The Warriors are tied at one in their playoff series with the Los Angeles Clippers. Curry takes on Chris Paul, one of the toughest point guards in the league for the third time this series Thursday at 10:30 p.m.
A conversation about the best point guard in the league right now cannot be had without Russell Westbrook’s name being said. Westbrook has had standout performances game after game this season for Oklahoma City. His intensity, strength, and speed are undeniable. Russell is averaging 21.8 points per game, and has even brought up his assist per game to reach just short of seven per game. Westbrook’s ability to get to the basket is almost unbelievable. He takes good shots but an argument could be made for just how many shots he does take. A scorer no doubt and his field goal percentage not bad standing at 43.7 percent, but is Westbrook a true point guard? OKC goes into their third game of the series tied at one on Thursday at 8 p.m.
Chris Paul’s eight years in the NBA has given him the opportunity to rack up plenty of awards. Five All Defensive awards, All Star MVP, two Olympic Gold Medals, and six All Star appearances, just to name a few, although Paul has yet to bring home a championship to the Los Angeles Clippers. Chris, an extremely vocal leader on and off the court pays great attention to detail.
This season he’s averaging 19.1 points per game, and 10.7 assist. Plenty of commercials for State Farm suggest his passion to assist his teammates. He strives on incorporating his team. Completely unselfish, but knows when to take the game into his own hands. He plays lock down defense, and controls the floor on the opposite end with thought out precision. Paul has a great understanding for his team and the ability of his teammates. It’s easy to see the chemistry they all share on the court. A true professional as he’s always looking to dissect his game in order to improve it. Paul controls the game as a point guard should from the pace to the plays, he is truly the anchor. Paul and the Clippers will take on Golden State Thursday night at 10:30 p.m.
Add The Sports Daily to your Google News Feed!
