Small Forward: Mike Dunleavy Jr. vs Paul Pierce
Apr 25, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Chicago Bulls forward Mike Dunleavy (34) dribbles the ball as Washington Wizards forward Trevor Ariza (1) defends in the third quarter in game three of the first round of the 2014 NBA Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Bulls won 100-97. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Yes, I know that’s not Paul Pierce in the picture, it’s Trevor Ariza. But that’s a big factor in this match-up considering Ariza had his way against the Bulls in that series last year, hitting 3s like he was Larry Bird.
This is the complete opposite match-up compared to the one Dunleavy would have against Milwaukee and Giannis Antetokounmpo. Pierce is even more seasoned a veteran than Dunleavy is and at 37 years of age, he shouldn’t be much of a threat, right?
He’s not the same player he was even a few years ago, but he’s still Paul Pierce; one of the most prolific scorers in the NBA and as clutch as they come. He killed Toronto in a seven-game series last year in the first round, and Dunleavy and the Bulls need to be aware of that. Pierce can, and will, hit big shots in big moments.
With Wall, Beal, Gortat, and Nene being covered by the other Bulls, Dunleavy will be placing all his defensive attention on Pierce.
On the other end of the spectrum, there’s Dunleavy and his three years of youth that he has over Pierce. Can Paul Pierce chase him around over screens and run him off of the 3-point line while Pierce’s younger teammates are busy with the Bulls’ bigger threats in Rose, Butler, and Gasol? I doubt it.
Advantage: Mike Dunleavy Jr.
Next: Joakim Noah vs Nene Hilario