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3 Reasons Golden State Warriors are a top tier NBA defense

By Tony Pesta

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 20: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors is held back by teammate Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 as he speaks with referee Mark Lindsay #29 following a call during the fourth quarter of their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on February 20, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 20: Draymond Green #23 of the Golden State Warriors is held back by teammate Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 as he speaks with referee Mark Lindsay #29 following a call during the fourth quarter of their game against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on February 20, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images) /
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Golden State Warriors Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports
Golden State Warriors Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Kelly Oubre Jr.

Kelly Oubre has acted as a nice complimentary piece next to Wiggins and Curry. With a similar frame to Wiggins, Oubre is capable of plugging up passing lanes and bursting to the ball on rebounds. He’s hauled in the third most total rebounds this season for Golden State, behind Green and Curry (who miraculously leads the team).

He’s a springy athlete with quick feet and a junkyard dog mentality. Oubre has become one of the Warriors’ main enforcers, showing he isn’t afraid to get in anyone’s face. This type of energy next to Draymond (more on that to come) plays a role every night for Golden State.

But, Oubre is more than just another player to bark at the opponent. He brings real fire to the game, scrapping and clawing to save possessions constantly. He’s averaging 1.1 steals per game and has blocked 27 shots this season.

The Warriors wouldn’t be where they are right now if it wasn’t for Oubre’s consistent play on the perimeter. He’s answered the call of replacing Klay (at least defensively) and the Dubs are thriving because of it.

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