SG/PG First Round: No. 8 Gary Payton vs. No. 9 Dwyane Wade
Gary Payton and Dwyane Wade are two different types of players. Payton, better known as “the glove,” is a defensive specialist, whereas Wade is an all-around player who is a great scorer and an above-average defender.
Wade’s identity is rooted in the fact that he can do whatever is needed of him on-court; Payton’s identity is in his ability to defend, and that is what will get him through this game.
Dwyane Wade would dominate this matchup if Payton weren’t one of the best defenders of all time. Payton, a nine-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection, will be able to hang with Wade solely because he will be able to lock him down for stretches.
The only problem is that Wade will use the 40-pound advantage he has on Payton to dominate him on defense. Payton also will have a difficult time scoring against Wade in the paint, which is a staple of his game.
Payton’s lack of a polished offensive game will come back to bite him in this matchup—Wade will run away with the game simply by outlasting the Glove.
Wade shows determination and persistence in this first-round matchup.