After a recent stretch of great play, and with improvement in his first two years, it’s time to take Gary Harris seriously.
On a team that has more guards than it even knows what to do with, Harris has separated himself from the pack. He’s taken over the starting role and has been playing out of his mind for the past few games.
Per ESPN, since February 15th Harris has averaged 22.3 points while shooting 48.4 percent from three. This is a very respectable three-point percentage, and he has been knocking them down left and right.
Ever since his slow rookie season, Harris has increased his production for Denver drastically. He’s become their shooting guard while averaging 14.2 points, 1.1 steals, and shooting 48 percent from the field (basketball-reference.com).
He’s thrown down some pretty electric dunks this season as well, as one came in a game against the Memphis Grizzlies.
CLEAR THE LANE! #MileHighBasketball pic.twitter.com/c3x3v1QAhH
— NBA (@NBA) February 26, 2017
Even with his recent explosive play on the offensive side of the ball, Harris has always been known for his defense during his NBA tenure. That hasn’t changed either, as he’s averaged 1.5 steals (six steals) in his past four games. He’s one of, if not the best defender on the entire Nuggets team, as it has been a staple of his game since his rookie season.
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Although the Nuggets have a lot of guards to deal with, Harris has played well with each of them. Whether it’s players like Jameer Nelson, Emmanuel Mudiay, or Jamal Murray, he relishes the chance to start for Denver. With Murray taking over some of the point guard minutes, Harris should see an increase in playing time as well. Personally, I love the idea of Jamal Murray eventually running the point guard position with Gary Harris on the wing.
If Harris plays like he has in his hot streak for a long time, then look out NBA. Gary Harris is coming for you.