Mark Jackson's First Coaching Stint

If you watch any games announced by the trifecta of Mark Jackson/Van Gundy/Mike Breen then you know Jackson preaches old school defense, not giving up easy points, and playing tough. He sure picked the right team to go to. Last year the Golden State Warriors gave up the 3rd most points in the NBA, had the 5th worst defensive rating, and their three franchise players--Curry, Ellis, and Lee--are also their three worst defenders. Although only one got in, all three of them were in serious consideration for the 2011 No Defense Team. The back court of Monte Ellis and Stephen Curry is not only undersized, but also unwilling to use the little size they do have to stay in front of defenders. David Lee, much like Kevin Love (not just because their both white 4s), does not have the physicality, or what seems like the desire, to bang down low unless it will result in a rebound or points. The only player in a Warrior uniform who seems to care at all on the defensive end is Ekpe Udoh, the 24 year old second year player out of Baylor.

While I am happy to see Mark Jackson out of the booth (anyone else sick of his slobber fests over Kobe Bryant and 'hand down man down' and 'momma there goes that man' type of sayings?), unless the Warriors make some major moves I don't see Mark Jackson lasting too long. The current group of players in Golden State simply won't buy into what he is preaching. Outside of Udoh, the only other Warriors who seem to fit the Mark Jackson mold is the Warriors fan base. Every home game is sold out and you will not find a more dedicated or loud home crowd. It is too bad they can't also take the court.