ANDRE IGUODALA: GAME-WINNING STEAL AND DUNK VS HAWKS
When it comes to Iguodala’s game, his impact transcends the stat sheets and box scores. Case in point, Iguodala stripped Hawks’ guard Kent Bazemore and threw down a hammer to secure the Warriors’ 114-109 win on the road against a pesky Hawks team.
The Warriors held a three-point lead with 18 seconds left in the game. The Hawks came back from as much as 15 points behind to make it a tight game. Iguodala pressed Bazemore, picked his pocket and sprinted down the court for the slam. The play was impressive given the fact that Iguodala looked slow and lethargic on offense for most of the year.
In addition to the game winning play against Atlanta, Iguodala seemed to find his groove after the All-Star Break. During the past five games, Iguodala is averaging 7.5 points per game while shooting 68 percent from the field.
While Iguodala describes his performance five games after the break as okay, the steal and dunk only magnifies the playmaking, IQ, and intangibles that he brings to the table.
“It’s all feel honestly,” Iguodala said “You’re up three points. Worst-case scenario, the key is not to give up a three. So you just pressure him up. If you get beat, a two won’t kill you. You can be aggressive in those situations”
During the last few weeks of the regular season, Iguodala seems to be peaking at the right time. Remember, Iguodala’s contributions that don’t show up in the box scores is where you will find and appreciate his impact.