The slot screen just might be one of the most common plays in the NBA when it comes to the pick-and-roll, but can you identify it?
Before we talk about what a slot screen is, we have to define what the slot is when it comes to an NBA basketball court. In simple terms, the “slot” is the area between the elbows and extended above the 3-point line. If you talk to an NBA coach, they would tell you that this area of the floor is referred to as “the slot.”
It stands to reason then that the slot screen is simply a screen that happens within this area of the floor.
So why would you want to know what a slot screen is?
One reason might be to better understand how Your favorite player operates in screens on different parts of the floor. While some players may be a very good at dealing with the pick-and-roll in space and in the slot, they could be comprably worse in Pistol action or in Get action.
Watch the full video breakdown above to see how the slot screen works in an NBA offense.
