Andrew Bogut: More than just a defender

It’s no secret that Andrew Bogut is an enormous defensive presence.

The 7’0″ Australian impacts and changes the defense in a way that few in the NBA can. However, since he was traded to the Warriors in 2012, Bogut wasn’t really a key part of the offense under Mark Jackson. In fairness to Jackson though, it wasn’t only because of the system, but also in part because of Bogut’s health.

Now under Steve Kerr, a healthy Bogut is just as important offensively as any other player except maybe Stephen Curry. Bogut is being used in a variety of ways and places on the court to help create looks for himself and others. Through 10 games, the center is averaging 8.2 points and 3.0 assists per game on 59% shooting from the field. His assists and field goal percentage are both top-5 among NBA centers so far this year.

Let’s look at Bogut’s offensive tools. For a man of his size, he’s an incredibly gifted passer. His large frame is perfect for setting solid screens that are wide enough to give the ball handler to more time to get separation. When diving into the lane, Bogut has a pretty good touch around the rim with either hand. Also, he’ll occasionally throw down like he did on JaVale McGee in the playoffs two seasons ago. Sometimes Bogut can fall in love with the floater when another dribble could get him right to the rim, it’s still a decent shot. His limited moves in the post make his back-to-the-basket game the weakest part of his offense.

In Kerr’s new system that emphasizes motion and passing, Bogut is seemingly starting to thrive in ways the league hasn’t seen since his early years as a Milwaukee Buck. One of the things that the Warriors love to do now is throw Bogut the ball in the high post and the top of the key. He’ll fake a dribble handoff, use his body to screen the entry passer’s defender, then look to find someone cutting backdoor to the basket. If that isn’t open, he’ll look to the other side of the court for someone coming around a screen.

He’s increased his field goal attempts and almost doubled his assists. As he’s developed more chemistry with Curry, his timing on pick-and-rolls has significantly improved. Because his screens are so effective, Bogut can slip the screen and run to the rim for an alley-oop. Kerr also gives Bogut the opportunity to get the ball on the block and try to score, something he wasn’t really encouraged to do before.

Bogut has reached double figures in the Warriors last three games including this impressive, efficient performance against the Lakers on Sunday:

If Bogut can remain consistent then this can really help the Warriors offense by giving them another threat. With Curry and Klay Thompson in the backcourt, Bogut’s passing can allow them to run around screens to look for an open shot either at the rim or outside the arc. Bogut’s offensive improvement also allows Kerr to continue to start Draymond Green with confidence and leaving the offensive-minded David Lee for the second unit.

In my opinion, it’s never a problem having more offensive weapons; it makes your team harder to defend. No one is expecting Bogut to be DeMarcus Cousins or Dwight Howard or even Milwaukee Buck Bogut, but if he can make the right passes and convert his floaters and layups, then the Warriors offense is going to be even more fun to watch than it already has been.