The Smartest Player in the Game?

As coaches, it's sometimes difficult to view the game of basketball objectively.  Certainly, it's become increasingly more difficult to watch it as just a fan.  Sure we are fans of certain styles or sets, but coaches are critical by nature.  This thought came to me last night as I watched Boston Celtics guard Rajon Rondo help lead his team to victory.  

I was a fan last night for the first time in a long time.  For two days I watched the pre-game shows and the basketball "experts" dissect Rondo's poor performance in game 1 vs the Knicks. I also criticized Rondo's inability and willingness to simply knockdown a 15 foot jump shot despite the space he was being given.  Like you and the experts, I sat in my living room thinking, "If I was the coach I would have him...(insert comment here)"

However, watching Rajon last night I came to the conclusion that I am guilty of being too critical.  I absolutely believed that he should take and hit those open shots.  I was wrong.  I now believe that not only may he be the best point guard in the NBA, but also he might be the most intelligent player in the league.

While he may seem un-coachable at times, Rajon seemingly knows his limitations.  Not only that, but he knows every player's strengths and weaknesses on the floor.  It must be frustrating for a guy, who is asked repeatedly to push the ball, to look up and see no one running with him on either side.  Yet, he maintains a steady balance of going to the rim or waiting for guys to fill lanes.  He works within the confines of what he's given.  Only smart players even want to do that, let alone will do it.

Further, name one guard in the league who, whether they were capable or not, would pass on the type of shots they are given for the betterment of the team? Name one NBA player that wouldn't want to turn those opportunities into "hero-status" by forcing the issue?  Isn't the easiest solution to get people off your back to do the obvious?  Maybe the fact that Rondo can't do something is the team's greatest asset.    

It's easy to say that Rajon Rondo is who he is because of the Hall-of-Famers around him.  But let's not forget exactly what being in that position with these players entails.  It's a delicate balance between trying to listen to them all, while still directing them.  There is NO ONE that has ever done it better.

So last night I sat back and watched Rajon play the game, I cheered for him.  I cheered for the unconventional way he approaches and plays the game. I cheered for his lack of regard for how we as coaches, analysts and fans and his Hall of Fame teammates thinks he should play the game. And I cheered for someone who is single-handedly reinventing his position - one non-attempt at a time.