Prime AD vs. Prime Duncan: A Dream Playoff Showdown We All Want to See

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Prime AD vs. Prime Duncan: A Dream Playoff Showdown We All Want to See

The Ultimate Big Man Battle

Let’s be honest: if you could time-travel to pit peak Anthony Davis against peak Tim Duncan in a playoff series, you’d sell your couch for front-row tickets. Both are defensive titans with elite scoring, rebounding, and playmaking—yet their styles couldn’t be more different. Here’s how they stack up.

Defense: Rim Protection Royalty

Duncan’s nickname was “The Big Fundamental” for a reason. His footwork, positioning, and spatial awareness made him a one-man defensive scheme. AD, meanwhile, is a switchable nightmare—blocking shots like a center while guarding wings on the perimeter. Advanced metrics love both, but Duncan’s 15 All-Defensive Team nods edge out AD’s 4 (so far).

Offense: Old School vs. New Age

Duncan’s bank shot was as reliable as British rain, but his game was grounded in the post. AD? He’ll drop 30 via mid-range jumpers, dunks, and even threes (career 31% vs. Duncan’s 18%). Fun fact: In their best playoff runs, Duncan averaged 25/12/3 (2003), while AD went 28/10/4 (2020). Efficiency? Nearly identical (58% TS for both).

The Verdict: Chaos Wins

A 7-game series would hinge on style clash. Duncan’s Spurs would slow it down, exploiting mismatches; AD’s squad would run him in pick-and-rolls until Duncan’s knees screamed. Statistically, it’s a toss-up—but my gut says Duncan’s consistency gives him the slightest edge. Now, where’s that time machine?

Drop your take below: Who wins in their prime—AD or Duncan?

TacticalTeddy

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