From his first steps in a professional setting, Kris Dunn has been a gritty defender on the perimeter. His offensive game has never been truly consistent, but over time, he learned that teams will still hand out millions to have him in a defense-only role.
On the LA Clippers, Dunn would be subbed in and out, like any other rotational piece, yet, when the offense was in need, head coach Tyronn Lue would have him vocal on the sidelines. This speaks to the veteran he is, as many former lottery picks would have a tough time accepting a position on the bench through the coach's discretion.
However, on the court, Dunn worked his magic in a lab and walked out with the peak defensive blueprint. This mostly meant reasonable physicality, so that fast breaks could be easily launched through steals and blocks.
That said, there was one more aspect to Dunn's defensive bag last season, and this one, in particular, is something other contenders will try to replicate but will not be able to.
Kris Dunn's full-court pick-up is a defensive mechanism that contenders will try to emphasize
Following one season of Kris Dunn on the LA Clippers, there seems to be a lot of resemblance to franchise legend, Patrick Beverley. They both have mastered every notable defensive technique and understand the wear and tear they can cause on an opposing backcourt by picking up the full 94 feet.
Dunn did it at every opportunity he got last season, and Tyronn Lue was likely the one behind the scenes encouraging it. This ultimately led to turnovers and transition lay-ups.
Because Dunn was so successful, opposing teams and other players around the league, who are trying to improve their defensive identity, will look to begin next season with the same strategy. It may work, but it could also lead to a breakdown, as a single missed defensive slide can create a lane for the ball handler to drive.
Moreover, few talents pose the same level of effectiveness as Dunn, and as a result, the Clippers should offer the Providence product a mid-season extension. He does not need to make an All-Defensive team for LA to see his value, as recognition or not, the front office knows he is one of the best guard defenders in the world.
By February, it will be time to pay him like one, as he deserves a two- to three-year, multi-million-dollar contract.