Comparing Golden State Warriors’ Roster to Los Angeles Clippers’ Roster
By Mike Dill
Shooting Guard
Warriors: Klay Thompson, Kent Bazemore
Clippers: J.J. Redick, Jamal Crawford, Willie Green
Apr 14, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Klay Thompson (11) and Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin (32) fight for the loose ball during the fourth quarter at the Staples Center. The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Golden State Warriors 112-104. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
The Clippers have two veterans at shooting guard, while the Warriors are a bit inexperienced. However, Klay Thompson is currently the best all-around player of this group.
Klay’s shooting often plays second fiddle to Curry’s, but he may be the second-best shooter in the league. He shoots 40 percent from three for his career and he was third in the league in made three-pointers last season.
Thompson has also developed into a great defender. His size certainly helps, but his defensive instincts seemed to come out of nowhere this past season. He needs to develop a more varied – and consistent – game, but a guy who can shoot and defend like Klay will always be valuable.
J.J. Redick never really lived up to being a first-round draft pick, but he has still had a decently successful career – especially the last few seasons. As I mentioned with Klay, a shooter, especially one who can move without the ball, will always be valuable.
Oddly enough, Redick is probably not as good as his backup, Jamal Crawford, who Crawford has been in the league for a long time, but hasn’t lost any scoring ability. His defense is subpar, but he provides a great spark off the bench for the Clippers.
Edge: Warriors