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The Anchor

LeBron James is the most talented player in the league, Dwyane Wade is the best two guard in the league, and Dirk Nowitzki is the most unstoppable player in the league but tonight in Game 6 of the NBA Finals Tyson Chandler is the most important man in the league.

When people rightfully wonder why LeBron James isn’t dominating these games by driving into the paint they’re either understating and overlooking the importance of Tyson Chandler as a shot blocker protecting the rim. In a league that is severely lacking in true Centers Tyson Chandler is on the block for the Mavericks making slashers like Dwyane Wade and bruisers like LeBron James think twice and take ill-advised jumpers.

When the Mavericks pack it in with the zone it’s Tyson Chandler playing Quarterback barking out orders and positions to put the slow-footed Mavericks in the right position to make plays on the defensive end. He’s made Dirk a better defender to the point that Ghostface Drillah is a legitimate shot blocking threat with active hands that look to strip the ball.

Most importantly he’s been the vocal leader that Dirk Nowitzki admittedly isn’t. While Dirk is a great teammate when things go bad on the court he’s more likely to play “the stick” pointing out mistakes, yelling at his teammates to get it together and while the Big German provides the prodding that is sometimes needed Chandler has taken on the role of “the carrot” staying positive and keeping the team together even if they’re down 15 with 5 minutes to play.

So tonight while you’re watching LeBron’s body language, Dwyane Wade’s relentless attacking on both ends, or Dirk’s perfect shot remember the man in the middle who’s contribution is overlooked while still casting a shadow over the whole thing, Tyson Chandler.

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