Astonishing Impact of Jonquel Jones' Absence on Defense for Liberty Team
In the ongoing WNBA season, the New York Liberty have been navigating through a challenging period with the absence of their defensive anchor, Jonquel Jones. Jones, who is the team's leading rebounder, has been out for 4-6 weeks due to an injury, causing a significant drop in the Liberty's defensive performance.
Before Jones's injury, the Liberty boasted a formidable defence, with a net rating as high as +29.94. However, in her absence, the team's defensive effectiveness has plummeted dramatically, with the net rating falling to +0.87. This sharp decline is evident in the team's defensive rebounding, a category where the Liberty have struggled this season.
Jones's absence has left a gaping hole in the defensive rebounding department, a category where the Liberty were the league's best last season. Without her, the team ranks poorly in defensive rebounding, and her presence is sorely missed. The team has not been able to fully compensate for her absence, particularly as other rebounders like Breanna Stewart have seen their rebounding numbers dip.
Stewart, who has not been satisfied with her rebounding performance at the start of the season, has been more aggressive in rebounding, especially with Jones out. In a recent game, Stewart recorded a season-high 14 rebounds and notched her third double-double this season, a testament to her increased aggression on the boards.
Stewart, who is also the team's second-leading scorer, wants to "clean up everything for [her] teammates" and be more aggressive on the boards. Her increased rebounding efforts have helped the Liberty maintain a competitive defensive rating, with the team's rating increasing from 83.7 to 102.6 in Jones's absence.
Amidst the team's struggles, Stewart has also hinted at a potential All-Star partnership with Napheesa Collier later this month. Stewart said, "I know things that you don't," about the potential collaboration with Collier, although the details remain unclear. Stewart did not rule out the possibility of teaming up with Collier, adding, "There might be a backroom, handshake deal."
Jones, who is the glue of the Liberty on both ends of the floor, is the team's air traffic controller in the paint and their best rim protector. Her return to the court is eagerly anticipated, as her presence would significantly strengthen the Liberty's defence and rebounding efforts. Until then, Stewart will continue to lead the team in Jones's absence, aiming to maintain the team's championship-contending defensive identity.
Without Jonquel Jones, the defensive rebounding category has become a challenge for the New York Liberty, with the team struggling to match their performance from last season when they led the league. Breanna Stewart, who recognizes the significance of her role, has increased her rebounding efforts to provide some compensation, as demonstrated by her season-high 14 rebounds in a recent game.
