Kris Dunn’s NBA journey has been a rollercoaster of setbacks and resurgences. From being a lottery pick in 2016 to spending time in the G League, Kris Dunn now stands as a vital piece of the LA Clippers‘ strong defense. His story of perseverance and impact deserves recognition.
Clippers Unsung Hero, Kris Dunn is One of the Better Feel-Good Stories
A Career Revived in Utah
Drafted fifth overall in 2016 by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dunn had high expectations. However, stints with Chicago, Atlanta, and Portland failed to establish him as a reliable NBA contributor.
His turning point came in the 2022-23 season. Starting the year in the G League, Dunn earned a pair of 10-day contracts with the Utah Jazz. His performance secured a $2.6 million deal with the team. In 22 games, he averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.6 assists, showing signs of his untapped potential.
Dunn’s next season with the Jazz saw him solidify his role, appearing in 66 games. His minutes per game reduced to 18.9 though. This was because the team prioritized the development of Keyonte George and Collin Sexton. While his scoring dipped to 5.4 points per game, he impressed with 47% shooting from the field and 36.9% from behind the arc. He also added 2.9 rebounds and 3.8 assists. However, his defense caught the attention of the Clippers. He finished the year with a defensive field goal % of 42.6. That means opponents were shooting at that rate from the field against him. For reference, Jalen Suggs and Derrick White who both made the All-defensive second team last season, had a DFG of 46.4% and 45.3% respectively.
A Key Addition to the Clippers
In the 2024 offseason, the Clippers signed Dunn to a three-year, $16.3 million contract, with $10.6 million guaranteed. This deal includes a team option for the third year, ensuring flexibility for both sides.
Dunn has quickly become integral to the Clippers’ rotation. His defensive contributions stand out on a team already boasting talented stoppers like Derrick Jones Jr. and Ivica Zubac. Head coach Tyronn Lue has leveraged Dunn’s skill set to bolster a defense often hindered by offensive-minded teammates like James Harden and Norman Powell.
Defensive Excellence
Dunn’s defense has been nothing short of exceptional. He boasts a steal rate exceeding 2.0%, underscoring his ability to disrupt opponents. His defensive rebounding numbers, elite for a combo guard, further highlight his importance. Opponents shoot just 42.9% when guarded by Dunn, the lowest among Clippers defending at least eight shots per game. This efficiency cements his status as one of the team’s top defenders.
Beyond individual stats, Dunn elevates the Clippers’ overall defense. The team allows 15.3 fewer points per 100 possessions when Dunn is on the floor, underscoring his indispensable impact.
Kris Dunn’s Filling Critical Gaps on the Clippers
Dunn’s presence addresses a glaring need for the Clippers. Harden and Powell, LA’s primary offensive threats, usually struggle defensively. Dunn’s ability to cover for their lapses makes him a linchpin in the Clippers’ scheme. His versatility also allows the Clippers to adapt defensively. Whether defending point guards or wings, Dunn provides stability against various matchups. His willingness to embrace a defensive role further enhances his value on a team built around offensive firepower.
A Feel-Good Story
Dunn’s rise from a G League player to a critical NBA contributor is inspiring. His persistence and adaptability have turned him into a vital piece for the Clippers. While stars like Harden and Powell dominate headlines, Dunn quietly ensures the Clippers remain a defensive force.
His story not only highlights his resilience but also underscores the importance of role players in a championship-contending roster. Dunn’s contributions go beyond statistics. He embodies the grit and determination that every successful team needs, making him one of the best feel-good stories in the NBA this season.
