I think Matt’s words, as seen above sum up the whole tone:

“I like to knock [the ball] around a little bit more, so him being big and strong, he can get up and win it. If we can keep possession through me, then I’m perfectly fine with that. And I’ll get into it sometimes, too.”

It’s more that John’s ability to do these things (but not only these things) enables Hedges to develop what’s a promising all-around game.

I definitely see what you’re saying, but I think you might be reading a bit too much into the “hammer” comment. Just because John can be a hammer doesn’t mean he can’t do other things.

It is unfortunate, however, that while doing so you grossly miss-characterized the game of his partner George John. Your article gives the impression that the partnership is akin to the pairing of Collin and Besler in KC, with John being the blunt instrument (Collin) to the surgical knife of Hedges (Besler) …..NOTHING could be further from the truth.
While Hedges touch and technique is excellent, Johns is better (i.e more consistent)
Its also important to note that along with being a statistically better passer (accuracy %) John is a materially better athlete …. noticeably quicker, faster, and more agile than his partner. John also boasts a 40″ verticle when tested at UW (as noted by the announcer in the FCD vs SJ preseason game)

While nobody is arguing Hedges is a better player the bottom line is that it is important to note that both are very talented “All–around” defenders capable of winning balls and starting the attack…something that can be lost when you describe John as simply a “hammer” and say things like “John’s authoritative presence combined with Hedges’ skill and athleticism allow Dallas’s head coach to focus on his skill-evolving attack.