Not going to lie, people. Between the earthquakes, floods, financial crises, the Suns being the stodgy, deep, rebounding team whipping the Spurs and Amar’e Stoudemire being the mature playoff performer while Chris Bosh acts out, I’m pretty sure the end is nigh.
Seriously, where are we?
While Chris Bosh is messing with Toronto fans’ souls on Twitter, Amar’e Stoudemire is flexing, defending, and working in the playoffs. Just months ago he was a failed centerpiece who didn’t defend or rebound. Now? He’s the primary big man on a team that looks like it’s on the verge of a Western Conference Finals appearance.
How big has Stoudemire been, in the ways we’re not used to him being? In Game 2, down the stretch, with the Suns trying to desperately hold on to a lead, Stoudemire grabbed two huge offensive rebounds to extend the Suns’ possessions. He’s forcing the Spurs to collapse on him which is opening up the outside game. He’s leading. He’s winning.
Chris Bosh? Who everyone says is the best power forward on the free agent market? He’s lounging Staples-side like Keanu Reeves and pissing off fans and teammates. Meanwhile Stoudemire’s been working on an extension with the Suns and not letting it affect his game.
But the value the Suns may have previously wanted to give Stoudemire may be outdated. As the New York Times notes, Stoudemire has likely boosted his free agency value significantly. If he does opt-out and the Suns don’t reach an extension, he could end up getting the money he’s maintained he’s worthy. You know, the max contract that Chris Bosh seems to think he and his position as the primary player on the second worst defense in the league deserves.
The choice between Bosh and Amar’e would be pretty complex. If you want consistency, Bosh is your guy. He’s good for 20+ and 10+ every night. But he’s also unlikely to excel beyond his normal boundaries, while Stoudemire can disappear from game to game and then detonate for some ridiculous 30+ and 15 stuff.
But of course, people will argue that Bosh’s defense is the difference maker.
Too bad the data doesn’t necessarily support that. In addition to the fact that Bosh was a part of one of the worst defenses in the NBA, Synergy has some interesting data to add. Turns out Amar’e is a whole .5 percent worst in direct defensive play situations.
And against the pick and roll man situations, which is, you know, kind of important as it’s the most frequently used play in the NBA, Bosh gives up a score 56% of the time, versus only 38% for Stoudemire.
Bosh is a better rebounder and still worth every penny for a max contract. But if Stoudemire keeps up the way he’s been playing? You have to consider the question if Stoudemire is the better option. But hey, Bosh looks good in dress clothes.
