This is part three of my series attempting to bring objective data into the evaluation of the job Scott Brooks is doing as coach of the Wizards. Here’s analysis of playing time and defense. Today: offense.
It’s an NBA truism that coaches have more impact on the defensive end. The thinking goes that a significant portion of offensive effectiveness is talent but that good defense is mostly about structure, teamwork, and communication.
I’ve never been fully convinced that’s correct at either end. Conversations I’ve had over the years with NBA coaches who’ve helmed elite defenses usually include a portion where they talk about constructing their defensive system around a great defensive talent, usually a big man.