2. His defense is too important
If you search the safety deposit box in your basketball memory bank, you will remember that there have always been defensive specialists. They have played a pivotal role in the success of many NBA teams over the years. From Tony Allen and Ron Artest to the Spurs very own Bruce Bowen. But nobody scolded those guys for not making the last shot of the game or not running the offense properly because that wasn't their role.
Jeremy Sochan discourse on this app has actually gotten gross. Heβs guarding the best players on the opposition and doing a great job. Heβs been one of the best LeBron defenders in the league. He held Donovan Mitchell to 11 below his scoring avg last game. pic.twitter.com/4Eco4maol9
β Joey π (@AssassinateHate) January 8, 2024
While asked to learn a new position during the first month and a half of the season, Sochan was often also guarding the best player on the opposing team. Throughout the last 10 games, there has been a noticeable improvement in the energy of the defense. The rotations are more crisp, and the players have been more aggressive. Sochan has been a key part of the growth fans have seen on that side of the floor.
Having a 6'9 forward on the floor that can switch 1-4, guard the occasional center, and play with attitude is a good thing. His 7-foot wingspan allows him to be very disruptive to offenses, and this dimension of his game can not be overlooked.