Here’s why Dorian Finney-Smith is one of the most underrated defenders in the NBA now
Dorian Finney-Smith is turning into one of the best defenders
© Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Dorian Finney-Smith is a chill guy who lets his game do the talking to him. One of the areas he's improved in his game this season is defense, and the whole Dallas Mavericks organization wants the forward to be considered for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
Luka Doncic praises Finney-Smith
If there's anyone who knows Doe-Doe on and off the court, it's superstar Luka Doncic who claims he wants to be teammates with Finney-Smith for life in a postgame interview with ABC.
"He's just Doe Doe. That's my guy. I've played with him for four years. I hope I play with him until the end of my career because he's an amazing player, but most importantly, he's a humble guy, [hard]-working guy, and a great person." via DallasNews
Finney-Smith is averaging career-highs in points, steals, and assists this season. But the most valuable impact he's giving to the Mavs on a nightly basis is his defense. In their games against Golden State Warriors, L.A. Lakers, Utah Jazz, and Boston Celtics, Doe Doe defended the other team's star players. Dallas won each game with superb defense and Finney-Smith as one of its anchors.
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Some of his notable achievements:
- He held Steph Curry shotless in the 4th quarter.
- He limited Donovan Mitchell to 5 of 19 shooting.
- He helped limit Jayson Tatum to 21 points on 7 of 23 shooting.
DFS levels up Dallas' defense
Since the All-Star break, the Dallas Mavericks have been an elite defensive team, and it could pave the way for a deeper playoff run this time around. The head of the snake is still Luka Doncic, but with guys such as Dorian and new recruits Davis Bertans and Spencer Dinwiddie providing steady contributions, it's looking like a different Mavericks team from a year ago.
Dorian Finney-Smith's ability to guard all positions on the floor and then make corner 3s will prove to be valuable to the Mavs come playoffs time. Doe Doe isn't loud or flashy, but his game, especially his defense, speaks volumes.
Both centers didn't disappoint in a direct matchup between the two leading MVP candidates. Who had a better game and more impact on their team? 🤔
