Shawn Marion

The Suns’ Shawn Marion, who at 6’ 7” is slight for a man playing power forward, has been a 46.55% field goal shooter. Like Nowitzki, he’s very strong from the penalty stripe, knocking down 88.67% of his free throws. Although Marion, like many of his Phoenix teammates, is small for an NBA player, his 11.2 rebounds per game are the best of all players who are still in the post-season. He is an amazing jumper and a cagey player who knows how to work the inside game. Marion, who has good hands, has averaged 1.9 steals per game; the power forward is not a big threat to block shots. However, he is a big threat when shooting. He leads his team in scoring with 21.2 points per game. Marion’s style is defined by his consistent, athletic play, which drives the Suns’ up-tempo game. He’s played through injuries during the playoffs and is a sparkplug for the Phoenix offense.

Including Marion, Two of these power forwards listed below will be in the Western Conference finals. Look for them to contribute more than points, although they will certainly do that. Rebounds and defensive moves are part of each of these guys’ games. They possess the potential to block out another power forward or a center, to control the inside play and to intimidate an opponent’s offense. They’ve got the power to control, alter and win a game.

Elton Brand - Los Angeles Clippers

Tim Duncan - San Antonio Spurs

Dirk Nowitzki - Dallas Mavericks

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