2015 NBA Playoffs: Positional Breakdowns Between Warriors-Rockets

May 5, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward

(40) looks on during the third quarter in game two of the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies at Oracle Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Warriors 97-90. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Small Forwards:

Warriors: Harrison Barnes & Andre Iguodala

Rockets: Trevor Ariza & Kostas Papanikolaou

In the wake of losing Chandler Parsons to their in-state rivals, the Dallas Mavericks, the Rockets went out and made one of the most underrated signings of the 2014 offseason by bringing in Trevor Ariza. He’s helped bolster their defense on the wings immensely, while still managing to provide an outside stroke off of Harden dishes from the drive.

The Warriors on the other hand made a different kind of savvy decision at the three. Coach Steve Kerr, opted to make Iggy their sixth man and give the starting spot to Barnes. It has worked out extraordinarily as both players have thrived in their new roles on the team.

Barnes is a premier athlete who has made great strides to improve his shot from long range. He has done a great deal to fit into Kerr’s perimeter oriented offensive attack. Iggy has become a major commodity for the Warriors as their sixth man, his play on both ends continues to be outstanding and it has certainly helped them become arguably the best team in the league.

Advantage: Warriors

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