Luol Deng
Nov 8, 2014; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward Luol Deng (9) is pressured by Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kevin Martin (23) during the second half at American Airlines Arena. The Heat won 102-92. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Luol Deng is thankful for Dwyane Wade, whose presence on the court opens things up for him. Wade has taken over LeBron’s role as the facilitator from the low post and Deng is now the team’s designated cutter. The two connect on backdoor and lane cuts, creating easy buckets for Deng. Wade’s missed seven-straight games with a strained hamstring, and Deng’s finding that his shots are more difficult, and he’s forced into more catch-and-shoot or off-the-dribble situations than when Wade is hitting him in stride for layups.
However, Deng is starting to figure out how to score without Wade. Check out his stats with Wade on and off the court, per NBAwowy.com.
With Wade: 14.5 PPG, 50.8 FG%, 56.3 TS%, 1.20 PTS PER POSS, 20.5 USG
Without Wade: 15.5 PPG, 50 FG%, 59.8 TS%, 1.23 PTS PER POSS, 20.5 USG
As you can see, Deng’s numbers are about the same across the board. However, before his 26 point and 16 point performances in the past two games, those numbers were much lower. Is Deng benefiting from a couple of hot nights? Or is he starting to figure it out? Either way, Wade’s presence makes things easier for him and rest of the Heat offense.
James Ennis
James Ennis is thankful for Rasual Butler.