It seems like every time I turn on the TV or the radio I’m inevitably doomed to somebody bringing up the discussion of who will take the last shot at the end of an NBA game. I know it’s hard to resist, but why must everyone automatically argue that the best player should take the last shot?

If my (very) limited experience playing basketball has taught me anything, it’s that forcing a shot usually doesn’t end up well. In fact, when I do it, it can be downright laughable, hence why I am not in the NBA. But in the NBA, a guaranteed shot attempt by any player makes the defensive task much easier. I do agree that the best player should get the ball; however, a shot doesn’t necessarily have to ensue.

Give the best player the ball and allow him the opportunity to make a smart basketball play. I personally am a fan of the penetrate and read. This allows for LeBron James, Derrick Rose, Carmelo Anthony, etc., to draw a double and dish, draw a foul, or make a move that will create an open shot. Tom Thibodeau’s decision to let Rose attempt a one-on-one duel with James in the 2010 playoffs was not only ineffective, it was stupid. Sorry, but it’s true.

No players were in a position to bail him out and Rose was put in a position to almost always fail. James’s “pass it off” at the end of the game is actually the right basketball play. In most cases, he draws two defenders and dishes, gets fouled, or in rare cases will take the last shot. This is not only effective, but smart. I know I am coming off as simplistic and somewhat arrogant but it’s just true. Take for example the infamous Steve Kerr bailout of Michael Jordan to win the 1997 NBA finals. Classic draw and dish. I know everyone agrees to let M.J. take the shot, but even the clutch Jordan had to share. Preschool taught us something…

I seriously hope that we don’t see Rose put in a similar situation unless there is a plan B and C ready to take action when James stops Rose in their next one-on-one showdown. This should be the plan in every situation, especially when one shot can determine the game. Let’s get over who should take the last show and focus more on who should start with the ball and how they should attack to get the points…regardless of who takes the last shot.