Draymond Green was one of the players that Collin Murray-Boyles was compared to in the pre-draft process.
Watching the Raptors’ rookie this season, it is easy to see why. He brings a similar level of defensive versatility and relentless motor that has defined Green’s career for over a decade.
After watching Green put on a strong defensive effort in the Warriors' first of two play-in matchups, Collin Murray-Boyles had this to say about him: "That's why he's a hall of famer. The fact that he has that defensive tenacity at this stage of his career... that's crazy for me to see. It makes me want to be like that. If I were to put a comparison on my defence it would be (him) for sure."
Raptors fans should be thrilled Murray-Boyles is looking up to Green
However, what truly made Green a fearsome defender for so long was his basketball IQ. He was never the most explosive athlete on the floor, but his processing speed, positioning, and anticipation allowed him to impact every possession.
Green consistently disrupted passing lanes, closed possessions with rebounds, and beat offensive players to their spots. That is what separated him from other versatile defenders across the league.
Murray-Boyles may have more obvious physical tools, but those will only take him so far. To make the next jump, Murray-Boyles must pair those gifts with the level of awareness and anticipation that made Green elite.
Collin Murray-Boyles is already ahead of schedule defensively
It is rare for rookies to be positive players on the defensive side of the ball. The NBA level is faster and more physical than any other level of basketball. Usually, adjusting to this level takes at least one to two seasons.
Collin Murray-Boyles clearly did not get that message. He has arguably been the Raptors’ best defender not named Scottie Barnes. Toronto has posted a 109.1 defensive rating with Murray-Boyles on the floor, compared to a 112.1 overall.
If Murray-Boyles takes the next step defensively, he has all the tools to develop into a Draymond Green-level impact defender.
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