Individual defense is one thing, but dominance as a group is often more difficult to obtain.
Everyone has to be on the same page. There can't be any miscommunication. It's much easier said than done, so when a squad puts together an excellent display of defensive tenacity for the length of an entire game, it says everything about their cohesiveness and team-wide buy-in.
The thing is, someone has to lead the way. No defense is able to find consistent success without a vocal leader. How about two?
Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Lu Dort - two veterans who share the same NBA squad and national team - led the way for Canada on the defensive end in their recent victory over Argentina.
Relentless defensive effort forced fatigue onto their opponent
It's easy to turn a blind eye to clear rotational shortcomings when said group is off to a hot start.
Argentina did, in fact, have Canada sweating early. Alexander-Walker, himself, had three early turnovers that helped aid a 13-0 Argentina flurry. Not ideal. Even early offensive woes can't be judged too harshly. Besides, players are just beginning to get into a rhythm.
Argentina was scorching to begin the game, but it wasn't due to a poor defensive effort from those on the other end. They were knocking down tough shots, and making Canada pay for their gambles that ultimately won them the game.
When an opposing team goes on a run, teams with a poor mentality tend to back off, resulting in a blowout loss. Canada, led by Alexander-Walker and Dort, didn't let a slow start shake them.
They applied the same energy to the opposing ball-handlers all night, and eventually, it got to them.
The Argentina turnovers piled up, and once Canada finally got in control of the evening, they didn't let go. They won 97-92, with NAW and Dort combining for 51 points and four steals.
This same energy should carry over to the Hawks
Yes, they've become very familiar with each other over the years, but this upcoming season is their first as NBA teammates.
Their already-established chemistry could prove to be crucial as Atlanta aims to upgrade their defensive output even further.
Dort is expected to fit right in with his new ball club, and if he can apply the same energy he's had over the course of his entire career, the Hawks could very well exceed expectations.
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