1. Relentless Defender
Avery Bradley has made his mark in the league, particularly as a defender. A player who unlike most can defend a top-tier guard the full length of the court. He is a two-time All-Defensive team selection. In 2016 he was a first-team selection and in 2013, he made it to the second-team.
The signing of Bradley can be as big of signing the Lakers had all summer for one huge reason. He can defend lead guards. This is crucial due to the number of great guards in the Western Conference. The conference is stacked with guards like James Harden, Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, and Damian Lillard.
Take away Bradley’s signing and the Lakers are stuck with Quinn Cook and Rajon Rondo to defend these stars. Neither of the two can defend players at that level. The only other option would be talented but inexperienced guard Alex Caruso. Caruso has been known to defend at a high level at the collegiate and G League ranks, but that’s not the same and it doesn’t compare.
Bradley’s defense compares to Patrick Beverley. Both have a similar build as undersized combo guards and both get after it. Bradley is listed at 6″2, 180 pounds, while Beverley measures at 6″1, 185 pounds.
The difference between the players is that Bradley plays a bit more under control. He doesn’t talk as much and makes less head-scratching plays. In his career, Bradley averages only 2.2 fouls per game, while Beverley, on the other hand, averages 3.1.
Like Beverley, Bradley can defend wings also if needed. In the past he has defended even star wings like Jimmy Butler in the postseason.