FanPost

when our roster is healthy, what is our biggest long-term need?

Perimeter Defense? Yes please.

The Point Guards in the west are regularly a matchup problem for us. Most of them are quick and expose our weakness of defending the pick & roll. Some of these guards include Monta Ellis, Baron Davis, Steve Nash, Chris Paul, Tony Parker, and Aaron Brooks. Mike Conley, Johnny Flinn, Russel Westbrook, Ty Lawson are on their way to being included in that list. Deron Williams and Chauncey give us problems too.

I am of the opinion that a high-level defending PG would solve a big problem this team has, and strengthen other aspects of our games. Keeping opposing point guards out of the paint forces them to take jumpers instead of layups or tear-drops: lower-percentage shots. It would help our bigs stay away from foul trouble, and also help them remain in the best position for rebounds. This all leads to us winning the battles in points-in-the-paint and in rebounds.

I know that we have used Batum to defend opposing PGs in the past, because of his length and how well he moves his feet, but as his defensive skills continue to grow I'd rather have him defending Melo, Durant, and the other elite wings. Bayless clearly has the physical tools to stop opposing PGs: decent size, great strength, good quickness. I am very hopeful he will decide to develop this part of his game soon, but I haven't seen any promising signs yet.

Does anybody else agree with me? that perimeter D from a PG is a biggest need? anyone?

(please, no Hinrich fans. he ain't that great)