Don't foul as much . . or not called for as many fouls. Those are not the same thing sometimes GREAT play is built on Reputation more than facts in the NBA . .. with these REFs . .. it happens often Rocket River
On a positive note, I was happy with how the team was playing despite the lack of free throws though. I think we may see them turn the corner soon. I expect them to take advantage of the next few games and really get a nice groove. But yeah, **** the refs!
You could be right, but it could also be result of sound defensive techniques being taught. We're still rank #2 in DefRtg, but we're constantly chasing guys when they blow by us on the perimeter or playing ole' defense while trying to poke the ball out from behind. Harden's great early season D hasn't been seen much since we started playing better offensive teams. His DefRtg is up to 100.2 (2nd worst for the starters) compared to the team DefRtg of 98.5. The biggest surprise is Beverley and his 101.0 DefRtg which is worst for the starters. Something just doesn't seem right with Beverley this season.
I've counted 4 steps many times, and 3 at least once per game. Remember, he moves the ball around while driving so the defender will hit his arm. To secure the ball while doing this, he uses both hands. Once the ball is in both hands, the pretense of dribbling is over. In Harden's defense, I once saw Kobe take 7 steps (mostly little ones) and get away with it. It's like Jordan's push-off. These guys establish a style, and if the league likes it, they allow it.
The way you are describing it is actually legal. "The ball in both hands" is considered a gather and does not count as the first step. You are allowed two steps after that. I could be interpreting your post wrong though so if we got some footage, I guess we could really tell.
