You can’t defend a layup better than Kyle Lowry did against John Wall

John Wall was frustrated. He may or may not have been fouled during a pivotal late-game layup attempt in transition that went from a clean look to a circus shot. Wall was demonstratively upset. When he got the ball back, he attempted to take his anger out in transition again.

Not in Kyle Lowry’s house.

Lowry took the law of verticality to new heights, jumping cleanly straight into the hair, both hands held to the sky, to contest Wall’s layup. He prevented the attempt from ever touching rim.

Lowry’s defense on Wall’s shot was incredible, and it came at a perfect moment. The Raptors were up eight, and you can certainly argue Wall got fouled on the previous possession. Even the slightest bit of ill-advised contact would have forced the officials to call a foul to make up for their last play. Lowry’s defense was so perfect, Wall couldn’t even complain about a no-call.

Lowry’s defense on Wall this possession is indicative of the kind of season he’s had. As the Raptors have transformed their offense, handing DeMar DeRozan the keys to the kingdom, Lowry has had to take a step back. He’s averaging three fewer shot attempts and six fewer points per game than last season.

But that doesn’t mean his play in-between the box score hasn’t impacted the incredible season they’ve had this year. His perfect defense on Wall is just another example.