So who are the “dirtiest” players currently in the NBA? Mind you, some Animate ‘feelers’ have made the list in years past, but this year the #13 FCIR definitely takes home the trophy. It’s based on the consensus of NBA coaches, assistants and players, and was conducted by The Times.
Matthew Dellavedova (#13 FCIR) of the Cleveland Cavaliers received the most votes with 13, while Oklahoma City center Steven Adams (#13 FCIR) came up second with 7 votes. Golden State center Andrew Bogut (#13 FCIR) took in 5 votes, while Memphis forward Matt Barnes (#10 BCAR) had 4, being the only Animate on the naughty list. In 5th place came Oklahoma City forward Serge Ibaka (#13 FCIR) with 2 votes.
Interesting article with a lot of players and types – thanks!
As a Thunder fan, I will say that I have watched Serge Ibaka in-depth for years, and I have always had him as a #9, fwiw (imo). I have perceived him as far too graceful and gymnastically “coordinated” to be #13. He doesn’t remind me of any #13 of similar size but reminds me much more of several other #9s in manner and movement (Dwight Howard, David Robinson etc.).
Totally had Delly and Adams as #13, though! Adams is practically a Caucasian subtype clone of fellow FCIR Joakim Noah. Novice typists should be able to readily see all their #13 manners and movements.
As for their dirty play, Delly was certainly awfully dirty last season, but he’s actually toned it down a lot this year. Adams, on the other hand…no; he’s as bad as ever, if not even worse than before. (I watch OKC and Cavs regularly on DirecTV; Cavs are my #2 go-to team now after OKC)
Thank you for typing Taj, btw (another dirty player; used to like him, but not so much now). I had suggested him as a notable name awhile back because he was a hard read for me.
Regarding #6, yes, they are hard to find nowadays in the modern speed-oriented league. Rose of the Bulls and Love of the Cavs are among the few left who are notable. Love did have the infamous incident with Luis Scola a few years ago, but he’s been low-key since then.
Finally, #1 may not be as physically dirty, but LeBron and even Durant, Brad Beal, etc. sure still run their mouths and put on impulsive and emotional pouting scenes when they can. (For balance, I’d also like to point out some atypical, low-key, calm #1s worth praise: Shaun Livingston, Joe Johnson, and Andre Miller.)