Shooting Guards
James Harden >>> I will be the first to admit that James Harden is a gunner; he shoots way too much. I remember watching Rockets games last year and seeing Harden dribble down the court and just shoot with no regard for passing. The reason I chose him last year and this year as the top shooting guard is because despite his shortcomings he is still explosive. His offensive game is complete, and even though he only averages 4 assists for his career, he is still a good passer. I think as he gets older and more experienced he will learn to enhance other parts of his game.
Career Stats: Points: 18.2 Rebounds: 4.0 Assists: 4.0
Klay Thompson >>> the demise of Kobe Bryant and Dwayne Wade has left a void at this position. I know both can still average more than 20 a game and be relied on to win some games. However, I don’t think either can consistently dominate at their position.
Can they check DeMarcus Rozen or Klay Thompson at one end of the floor and still be effective at the other end? I don’t think so. Are they more of a potent offensive weapon than James Harden? I don’t think so. Again both will probably be all-star caliber this year but have slowly declined onto the level with the other players at this position. For most players being at an all-star, competitive level is cool; but for two Hall of Famers, it can look awkward.
Klay Thompson is not as aggressive as I would like to see players at this level be, but he is skilled. In fact, he is probably the best shooter at this position and his length allows him to defend every player at his position effectively. If he can assert his game to killer status, night in and night out; he could become the premier shooting guard in the league.
Career Stats: Points: 16.1 Rebounds: 3.1 Assists: 2.2