Finally, Flip Saunders is signed and Official, capitalization for what the coach brings on Offense has sparked the interest of Wizards fans and created excitement among the players.
On Washington Post Live, Gilbert Arenas talked with Ivan Carter about loving Flip's style of play. Agent Zero said Saunders will help him be a better point guard, running the standard NBA pick-and-roll offense a la Chris Paul.
Ernie Grunfeld had Ed Tapscott attempting to implement the P&R offense during his interim status, but unfortunately, Tap isn't exactly an Xs and Os guy. Grunfeld's writing was on the wall, the Princeton offense had run its course.
Those skeptical over Saunders' arrival in D.C. make accusations of just another souped up offense, still leaving the Wiz with no proficient defense. Although justifiable to a certain extent, assuming continued inefficiencies on D with essentially the same personnel is easy, but doesn't tell the whole story.
Saunders, knock on wood, will hopefully bring a more reliable and consistent offense. A team valuing possessions and limiting turnovers will naturally improve the defense by decreasing opponent offensive chances, such as through points off turnovers.
Flip's proponents claim him to be a well-rounded renaissance man, writing the book on the fundamentals of match-up zone defense. But learning the nuances of the zone requires focus and commitment from those on the court.
The dazzle of an official Offensive coach has players with bright eyes reflecting scoreboard lights, but improvement across the board depends on the Big Three of Arenas, Jamison and Butler on the other end of the court. They must better Dedicate themselves to intelligent Defense in a capital way if this team wants to win games against good teams.
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Kyle Weidie also writes Truth About It and contributes to Bullets Forever, both Washington Wizards blogs. He would like Arenas to talk more about being a defensive stopper.
