Herb Jones on the All-Defensive team is not “insane”

The New Orleans Pelicans went from 1-12 to the play-in tournament and Herb Jones has been a huge part of it.

Jones has helped morph the identity of the Pelicans from a team that could score a ton of points but couldn’t defend, to one that has jumped into the top half of the league in points allowed.

Herb is already starting to get a reputation around the league, as several veterans have commented on his defense, basketball IQ and the fact that he does not play like a rookie.

He’s also been better than advertised on offense, becoming a threat from the corner three and getting several buckets per game with hard cuts to the rim when his defender slacks.

But Herb is mostly known for his defense, and was asked recently if he thought he had a chance to make the All-Defensive team.

Ever humble, Jones simply said, “That would be insane.” Sorry to disagree Herb, but it really wouldn’t.

New Orleans Pelicans: Herb Jones has a strong case for All-Defense

If you just look at how the Pels have improved on defense, that alone is enough to get Herb some votes, as they were atrocious last season.

Coach Willie Green deserves some of the credit, but a lot of it goes to Herb, who has absolutely changed the dynamic of the Pels with his defense.

He’s one of the best wing stoppers in the league, leads all rookies in steals and is 5th in the league overall in steals per game.

He will defend anyone on the court and is one of the best in the league at getting his hands into passing lanes for steals and at closing out on shooters, as he does here.

Just look at where Herb was when the shooter got the ball. He was not only able to close out for the block, but retrieved the block and took it all the way for the finish.

Herb has made life easier for Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, who can always rely on him to take on the tough defensive assignment whether it is a guard or power forward.

The idea that an unknown second-round pick would make the All-Defensive team is “insane,” I agree, but the more you watch Herb Jones play, the more you realize he belongs there.