Lens Analysis G1 Caruso Defense, Experience and Defensive Reading Breakout High

The Thunder unfortunately lost to the Pacers in G1 in the finals, but the content presented in the game is still remarkable. Among them, Caruso's performance was still very outstanding, with 3 of 8 shots and 1 of 4 three-pointers, scoring 11 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals and 2 blocks. Although his score is not high, his defense has left the Pacers unable to find form on the outside for a long time.

When you see Halliburton breaking through, stand in advance to the defensive position Forced him to get the ball

Caruso did too many inconspicuous trivial things

When he saw McConnell going to pass through two screens, he moved to the free throw line area in advance, blocking the breakthrough route

When the Pacers passed the ball, they substituted the defense with Alexander, and directly defended Siakam and him to grab the rebound

He made a breakthrough and back-attack, and then switched to McConnell. When he saw Matherin breaking through, he broke out from behind and interfered with layups. When he did not defend the ball, he could also provide his defense on the ball. When Halliburton broke through, he pretended to assist in defense and blocked the breakthrough route, and did not give Siakam a chance to have a free space in the bottom corner. Almost every defensive round can see Caruso contribute his own strength. He knew that McConnell, who should be defended, was not a high three-point shooting percentage, moved to the free throw line in advance to block Matherin's breakthrough route, forcing him to use a throwing and not to make a back point to grab the rebound

Know that the Pacers' defensive counterattack was very fast, quickly retreated and attacked Dort, and seized the opportunity to steal the misalignment of Siakam and Wallace. Caruso also knew this very well and had been hovering in the paint area. Nesmith's experience was obviously at a disadvantage. After seeing Siakam's back-run, he happened to be caught by Caruso in the same round. There were many other rounds. Caruso could see Caruso running tirelessly in almost every defensive round. He used his experience, defensive reading and defensive ability to help this young team. Although G1 lost the game regretfully, the Pacers made 19 mistakes in the half, setting a new high in the playoffs this year and also the highest record for half-time mistakes in the NBA playoffs history. Caruso made an indelible contribution to this record. The series is still long, and it is hard to say who wins and who loses.