For many years teams from the Eastern Conference play different style of basketball than the teams from the West, with East coast being more conservative and the West featuring many run and gun teams. When it comes to players, you won't find any as different as two centers from the far East and far West of - Europe!
Ladies and Gentleman - meet Mehmet Okur and Pau Gasol.
Most of the time, I say that players playing different position should not be compared. This time, I'll try to break down the games of two almost uncomparable, but playing the same position, trying to find the ultimate edge and help you decide which player would you rather have on your team.
Offense
Pros:
Okur - deadly three point shooter, excellent in pick and pop sets, clutch
Gasol - numerous post moves, great finishing around the rim with both hands
both - very good passers, respectable mid range shot and free throw execution
Cons:
Okur - no back post technique, relies on the jumper to much
Gasol - extremely soft, practically never scores on game winning shot around the buzzer
both - lack of athleticism, can't leap
Defense
Pros:
Okur - able to step it up when needed, doesn't get intimidated, relatively strong
Gasol - has length and quickness, good shot blocker
both - good rebounders, understand how to defend picks
Cons:
Okur - disinterested until the playoffs, slow on covering ground
Gasol - poor vision of the backdoor cuts, can be overpowered
both - somewhat prone to personal fouls, aren't vocal enough for the anchoring position
Voice you oppinion - what style of play do you like better and who would you rather have on your team.
