MAVS NEWS:

[Winter]

I think by mid-season, a coach should be able to explain to AD - statistically and through film - that he is better for the team at the center position.

If he agrees, then you are faced with trading either Gafford or Lively (or possibly AD himself). You can't afford 3 very capable centers.
If he disagrees against the statistical evidence, then I think you simply trade AD.

This assumes all centers and PFs are healthy at mid-season (which is probably less than 50-50). If one has a serious injury, then I think you can play through the entire season before that decision has to be made. Either way, if the Mavs begin the season with the current roster, the PF position will eventually have some statistical clarity with so many players likely playing it for several minutes each game. There should be enough information by mid-season that the coach and GM will like understand the best fit.

The least likely thing to happen in my mind is that the Mavs won-loss record is extraordinarily good at mid-season with the roster as it's configured. In which case, there's no urgency to change it.