Analytics have changed the way NBA teams play basketball. Given how much success the Golden State Warriors had this past season, a shift from traditional lineups to small-ball isn’t going away anytime soon.
The Washington Wizards played a similar style during the NBA Playoffs after Randy Wittman essentially refused to do so during the regular season. With Paul Pierce at the four spot and Otto Porter at the three, Washington’s spacing improved and their offense flourished.
Guards John Wall and Bradley Beal finally had room to operate.