NBA Finals: Position By Position Preview
Jan 9, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) attempts a shot over Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) in the second quarter at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Center- Timofey Mozgov VS Andrew Bogut
Mozgov has been a monster around the rim defensively for the Cavaliers this post-season. With his size and strength, Mozgov has been able to either block or affect any defender that drives the lane against the Cavaliers. Throughout these playoffs, when the defender is within 6 ft or less of the basket, Mozgov is only allowing opponents to shoot 36.8% and when the defender is within 10 ft or less, Mozgov is only allowing opponents to shoot 40.8%.
Mozgov’s size is game changing for the Cavs. He can take up space quickly, has long arms and quick responses both in altering shots as well as rebounding. His frame allows him to create great box outs that allow others the lane to get rebounds. On offense, Mozgov has some limits, specifically his hands. He struggles catching bounce passes and can fumble the ball on entry passes. Alley oops and put backs are where he makes his mark, as well as setting screens, on the offensive end.
Bogut is not the feared player that he once was. The undersized Green has more rebounds and a similar block number as the big Aussie center. The Warriors often went away from him during the season, both to preserve his health and to get a better offensive lineup on the floor. He only averaged 24 minutes a game, putting in 6.3 points. In the post-season his numbers have stayed pretty similar.
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It would not be shocking to see the Warriors only play their center around 24, or less, minutes a game. He is the team’s lone rim protection but they play a better overall game without him. Mozgov’s improved baseline jumper should help keep him a little honest near the hoop, and Thompson’s activity along, with LeBron and Kyrie driving, could cause him foul trouble.
Advantage- Cavs
Tally – Warriors 3 Cavs 2
Which match-up are you looking forward to the most in the NBA Finals?