Marcus Smart: Greatest at Diving After Loose Balls EVER!

[Redz]

Obviously there's no way to measure this claim besides the eye test, but the guy has a legit skill level at diving after balls the likes of which I've never seen.  Some guys will dive after a ball to show some hustle and others might even get to the ball, but for the most part you're looking at a timeout or a jump ball if they do manage to get it.  Marcus not only has the will to go to the floor, he has the uncanny ability to cut down the angle of the other pursuer (who is often closer to the ball) and position himself to not only get the ball, but secure possession by getting it to an upright teammate (often before he hits the ground).  It's more than just the desire to show hustle.

It reminds of Rodman going after a long rebound.  He would know which way the ball going to go for before it hit the rim and beat everyone there.  Definitely a unique skill set, and good for a possession or two a game (we'll leave the other side of the possession out of the conversation).

[jambr380]

Yeah, I think that's part of why he has the nickname 'Cobra'. His willingness and ability to explode after a loose ball is really incredible. Last night he beat Draymond Green to one - that's all that really needs to be said.

Also impressive is his ability to win jump balls he has no business winning. That tip to Tatum to lead to a fastbreak dunk was a thing of beauty.

When Marcus Smart is on his game, he is a legitimate star in this league. His influence on an NBA game can really swing a match-up. And he also has an uncanny ability to come up big in prime time match-ups and the clutch in general (obviously).

[nickagneta]

Yeah, I think that's part of why he has the nickname 'Cobra'. His willingness and ability to explode after a loose ball is really incredible. Last night he beat Draymond Green to one - that's all that really needs to be said.

Also impressive is his ability to win jump balls he has no business winning. That tip to Tatum to lead to a fastbreak dunk was a thing of beauty.

When Marcus Smart is on his game, he is a legitimate star in this league. His influence on an NBA game can really swing a match-up. And he also has an uncanny ability to come up big in prime time match-ups and the clutch in general (obviously).

Though Marcus is having one of his worst shooting years in his career, and that's saying something, I think his All-NBA defense has returned and he is having the best year in his career in every other way other than shooting

What I absolutely hate about Marcus is stuff like what he did earlier in calling out the Jays and his consistent unbelievably stupid plays he can make during big games. It drives me crazy.

Marcus, heart and soul of the team. I get it. But I would have no issue moving him in a trade for a better player. The all-time worst shooting and dumb stuff I am done with.