Posted by mumcoach on 12/8/2016 12:49:00 PM (view original):
So DEF is essentially avoiding fouls while SPD and ATH is where steals are created?
High defensive rating helps with keeping opponent field goal percentage down as well, but I feel that's less important than getting steals. For defensive ratings, you could have an average defensive team that holds the opponent to 49% compared to 43% for an excellent defensive team. Even with the difference of 6%, there is no guarantee they won't get the offensive rebound, which basically blows that 6% differential out of the water. I believe defense plays a small percentage in getting steals, but not as important as speed first then athleticism second. However, for the game itself and overall athleticism is probably more important than speed. You can have an excellent defensive team on great speed and athleticism, but average defense.