FA: Klay Thompson Comes to Dallas| 3yrs/50mil

[ballsrchr]

I'd like to suggest something related to the comments above about the "Luka-centric" offense and how DAL needs to diversify for continued growth and success.

I agree with the thrust of the comments. The new additions, coupled with the remaining core players, provides an opportunity for the coaching staff to implement new wrinkles to expand the offense so DAL doesn't get handled like BOS did. And getting Luka to buy in to these changes is key to their success.

I'm not saying his buy-in is an issue. The problem is he's going to have to experience the success rather than just accepting it intellectually. My point is that, for his entire NBA career, it has required his individual greatness to lift the team to where it is today. We have all seen the bricks launched after an amazing Luka pass gets a wide open shot. So far, his experience tells him that, if he doesn't get it done, odds are nobody else will. Kyrie helped a lot last year, but wasn't really dependable in the playoffs and (TBH) we spent the whole season holding our collective breath about Ky getting injured.

So my premise is that Luka can be the player described above. In fact, he needs to be that player, even if it's preserving himself for the long haul. But to internalize his new role, he's going to have to believe that the rest of the squad will hold up their end of the deal. So I think Kidd & Co. will evolve the team, but it's not going to happen on October 22nd and there may be some ugly games early in the season as everybody gets their roles figured out.

Absolutely!  Luka needs to see success from the rest of the team.  They have to carry their part of the load.  Luka's minutes will go down, his defense and off ball play will get better.  He may even be able to make the step to the next level of team synergy and leadership.  Right now he has to fight tooth and nail for everything he gets.  It's gotta get easier...