Trae Young’s NBA Journey Reflects the Decline of Short Point Guards
Average NBA Player Height in Decline, But Point Guard Trend Defies the Average
The average height of an NBA player has been declining, but one position bucks this trend – the point guard, where taller players are thriving.
Once dominated by shorter, agile players, the modern NBA point guard is now taller and more athletic, leading to a decline in diminutive players at the position.
Trae Young: A Casualty of the Changing Game
The recent trade of Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young to the Washington Wizards serves as a noteworthy example of this shift. Young, listed at 6’2″ (1.88 m) and around 80 kg, is considered by many as the worst defender in the NBA.
The fact that Young has been a liability on defense for most of his career shows how much the game has changed,” said Ken Berger, NBA insider for Bleacher Report.
Despite being a consistent high scorer, Young’s teams performed worse with him on the court than off it in five out of eight seasons, leading to his trade.
The Rise of the Tall Point Guard
- Since 2000/01, the average height of NBA point guards has increased from 1.85 m to 1.90 m.
- Taller point guards like Luka Doncic (2.03 m), LaMelo Ball (2.01 m), and Nikola Jokic (2.11 m) are thriving in the league.
- Hall of Famer Magic Johnson, at 2.06 m, was an early pioneer of the taller point guard trend.
Why the Trend Towards Tall Point Guards?
Did you know?
Today’s NBA demands more versatility and physicality from its point guards. As a result, taller, stronger players have an advantage.
In a league where three-point shooting and positionless basketball are king, taller point guards can provide both offensive firepower and defensive prowess. They can switch on screens, guard multiple positions, and provide a gravitational presence on the floor.
What Does the Future Hold for Short Point Guards?
While there will always be exceptions like Stephen Curry, the era of the small, under-6′ point guard is largely over. Teams now seek players who can do it all – score, pass, defend, and switch.
Pro tip:
Young’s struggles highlight the necessity for short point guards to develop exceptional offensive skills, as well as commit to improving their defensive game and physicality.
Despite his limitations, Young remains an elite scorer and a gifted playmaker. With a improved defensive effort and some helpful defensive teammates, he can still thrive in the NBA.
FAQs
- Why is the average NBA player getting smaller? As sports become more strategic and statistically driven, smaller players with unique skills and versatility are experiencing a resurgence.
- Is there still a place for short point guards in the NBA? While the landscape favors taller players, skilled and versatile players such as Stephen Curry have proven that there’s always room for exception.
Call to Action
What do you think about the decline of short point guards in the NBA? Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know if you believe there’s still a place for them in the league!