2013 NBA Playoffs: Golden State Warriors vs. Denver Nuggets Preview

Guard – Klay Thompson vs Andre Iguodala

Denver has a combination of two-guards, which makes it tough to circle one specific player that will start in that slot. So, I went with Iguodala.

Iguodala easily had one of his worst years as a pro this season. He averaged just 12.7 points, 5.4 rebounds and 5.3 assists in 34.8 minutes per game.

April 17, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Andre Iguodala (9) with the ball against Phoenix Suns forward Wesley Johson (2) during the first half at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets won 118-98. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Defensively, he hasn’t lost his edge. Per 82 Games, the Nuggets allow 109.8 points per 100 possessions when he’s off the floor to the 104.7 they allow when he’s on the floor. That’s a sizable disparity.

With that in mind, it’s only reasonable to think that Iguodala could end up guarding Curry. He would have the clear height and athletic advantage, and if Curry’s hot, the Nuggets will throw their best perimeter defender at him, which is indeed Iguodala.

So again, the shooting guard picture is a little foggy on the Nuggets’ side. I’ll give Thompson the advantage because he can lift the Warriors’ offense to another notch when he’s hot.

Advantage Golden State