NBA Guards One on One Tournament

Here’s an 8 player one on one tournament bracket we came up with that includes some of the best guards in the NBA.  This is a single elimination tournament, games to 11 by 1s and 2s, winner’s ball.  

Here’s the field:

Assuming all players are healthy, who do you think would come out on top?

Here’s how we think it would play out.

 First round:

(1) James Harden vs. (8) Zach Lavine

Starting at the top of the bracket, this is a tough matchup for Harden.  Lavine’s size and athleticism would pose a problem for Harden who although has improved as a defender, still isn’t the best.  That being said, Harden’s offensive skill set would help him pull out the victory in a closer than anticipated first round matchup.

(4) Damian Lillard vs. (5) Bradley Beal

In my opinion this would be the most competitive matchup of the first round.  Both players are top 5 in scoring this season (Dame at number 5 and Beal at number 2).  Ultimately, I think Dame’s speed would help him come out on top in an awfully close game.

(3) Steph Curry vs. (6) Russell Westbrook

Here’s my first round upset pick.  If Russ can get a stop on defense, I think his strength, speed, and athleticism would be too much for Steph to handle defensively.  He wouldn’t have to settle for jump shots, and he would overpower Steph at the rim.

(2) Kyrie Irving vs. (7) Trae Young

Kyrie wins this matchup handily.  His offensive arsenal combined with his strength would be too much for Trae. 

Second round:

(1) James Harden vs. (4) Damian Lillard

This is a tough one.  I think whoever gets out to a lead first will stay in control.  Since Harden is the 1 seed he will start with the ball, so I’ll pick him to come out on top.  His size will play a large factor in this victory as well.

(2) Kyrie Irving vs. (6) Russell Westbrook

Kyrie would be more physical with Russ compared to his first-round matchup with Steph, however Russ would make Kyrie work much harder on offense compared to his earlier matchup with Trae.  I think Russ is headed to the finals with a narrow victory.  His speed and strength again being the difference, along with his willingness to defend.

Championship round:

(1) James Harden vs. (6) Russell Westbrook

We have a final between the Houston backcourt.  Out of all the players in the tournament field, I think this is the worst matchup for Harden.  Westbrook is physical enough to get stops on defense, and his speed on offense will prove to be too much.  I’m picking Westbrook as the Champion.