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Timofey Mozgov vs. Pau Gasol
This is another match-up that may look peculiar, as Gasol is listed as a power forward and Mozgov is a true center. However, the comparison between the two is a fun one. First of all, Gasol is definitely a center. He couldn’t guard a power forward to save his life. Second of all, they are both gigantic and slow. So, they are perfect for this match-up.
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Gasol had a great offensive year for the Bulls, but had a poor defensive year when you dig deep into the numbers. Mozgov on the other hand, had a great defensive year for Cleveland, but a less than stellar offensive performance. Both big men were key components of their team’s successes this past year.
Here’s their regular season stats for 2014-15:
Mozgov – PPG (9.7) RPG (7.3) BPG (1.2)
Gasol – PPG (18.5) RPG (11.8) BPG (1.9)
Mozgov is not in the same category as Gasol as far as name recognition or in the box score, but he was vital for the Cavs in the playoffs. Mozgov was a genuine rim protector for Cleveland and he played his role perfectly. Gasol actually stepped his defensive game up a bit in the playoffs, but he would end up missing 2 games against Cleveland due to a hamstring injury.
Here is how they compared in the series.
Mozgov – PPG (7.6) RPG (6.5) BPG (1.6)
Gasol – PPG (11.5) RPG (5.7) BPG (1.7)
Gasol’s numbers dropped a good bit, but he was also attempting to play through his hamstring injury. The physicality of the series was too much for the hobbled Spaniard. Mozgov’s numbers were also unimpressive, but he did his part defensively and got out of LeBron James’ way on offense. The importance of these two isn’t evidenced too well by their playoff performances, but make no mistake about it, they are both needed in order to win a title for their respective teams.
Pau Gasol wins this head-to-head due to his offense, although Mozgov means just as much to Cleveland as Gasol does to Chicago.
Next: Varejao vs. Noah