Andre Iguodala is still the Warriors’ most important bench player

There is no doubt that Andre Iguodala is still the most important player off the bench because of his defensive abilities.

On Thursday night against the Denver Nuggets, the Golden State Warriors gave us a glimpse into the future. They beat an up-and-coming team on the hardest back-to-back in the NBA, playing their best game of the season. The entire team is starting to click with the exception of Andre Iguodala.

Iguodala has struggled early with his three-point shot and finishing at the rim. This has made many fans frustrated with his play. There is no doubt that Iguodala is still the most important player off the bench because of his defensive abilities.

Draymond Green is the clear leader of this defense but Iguodala remains the best perimeter defender. In a blow-by league, Iguodala keeps his opponent in front of him better than anyone and forces them into a contested shot. On the rare occasion when Iguodala is out of position, he has the uncanny ability of reaching in and forcing turnovers. This fuels the transition game where the Warriors are lethal.

Iguodala remains in the top-10 in plus-minus in the league at almost nine points per game, which is remarkable for any bench player. His plus-minus is equal to Kevin Durant and only trails two-time MVP, Stephen Curry. Iguodala’s high plus-minus throughout his Warriors’ tenure is due to his incredible defense, high basketball I.Q. and an occasional three-pointer.

Warriors fans should not be alarmed by Iguodala’s slow start because like the rest of the team, Iguodala is getting used to his new teammates. He will get more comfortable and when that happens, we will see a more relaxed Iguodala. His shot will return to his effortless release, which will force defenses to honor his shot. This will open up the floor and create opportunities to drive to the hoop.

Iguodala is not the same player that won Finals MVP. He is not as aggressive and is no longer a focal point but he is still extremely valuable. He is a mentor, leader and losing him would dramatically stunt the growth of Patrick McCaw, Javale McGee and the rest of the Warriors young bench.

Iguodala is averaging four points per game, a career low, but due the Warriors firepower, his scoring is unnecessary. The rest of the bench have made up for his lack of scoring. Ian Clark has shown a new found confidence with his long-range shot. David West is getting in a rhythm from the elbow. Shaun Livingston is shooting a career-high from the field while Kevon Looney is rebounding every missed shot that comes his way.

If the Warriors suffer an injury or someone is struggling to score, the Warriors have no doubt he can fill that role. He is the ultimate Swiss Army knife for this team and essential to their success.