The National Basketball Association (NBA), renowned for its high octane offense and thunderous dunks, has always had a special place for those who prioritize the less glamorous, but equally important, aspects of the game – Defense. Among the standout defenders of the current era, Draymond Green holds a special place. Known for his tenacity and intellect, Green often finds himself tasked with guarding opponents considerably taller than him; checkout his story at ESPN.com.
The Price for Playing Rough
Performances such as the ones given by Green often result in serious physical consequences. High intensity defense in the NBA demands quicker movements, split-second decisions, and sometimes, imposing oneself physically against an athlete who’s aiming for the stars, quite literally. Staying on your toes (again, quite literally), for the better part of the quarter definitely takes a toll, and over the years, Green has had his fair share of injuries because of his aggressive defensive play; an overview of injuries in the NBA can be studied at Ron Buckley’s NBA Injury Database.
The System’s Role
While the player’s commitment to defense is admirable and necessary, the system too can bear some blame for the player’s frequent injuries. The NBA, despite its global popularity, is primarily designed around the offensive side of the game, with rules often favoring the attacking player. While players like Green continue to excel in their roles, it is important that the officials redefine the rule book to ensure the safety of the defensive players. More about the NBA’s rules that favor offense can be found on nba.com.
Recognition and Respect
Despite the physical taxation, a few like Green continue to put in the hard work every night on the court. This selfless dedication to the team and the game rightfully earns them respect and recognition. With the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year award and multiple appearances in the NBA All-Defensive Team, Green’s stellar defense hasn’t gone unnoticed. The NBA Defensive Player of the Year award history is available for viewing at nba.com.
Towards The Future
Moving forward, it’s essential that the NBA find a balance between maintaining its attractive, fast-paced style of play and ensuring the safety and longevity of its athletes. Not all heroes wear capes; some of them wear shorts and high-ankle sneakers, often standing in the painted area under the basket, putting their bodies on the line to stop a dunk, or to secure a rebound. The league needs to ensure that these warriors can continue to shine, without costing an arm and a leg, both metaphorically and physically.