MAVS NEWS:

[Smitty]

I like Jones. I think if they moved Powell, he'd be a good replacement. 

I don't think not making that move would represent some sort of missed opportunity, because a year from now there might be a Jones-level player you like just as much or more. In the meantime, I have very little doubt that Powell is probably the safer bet on the court when this one season is viewed in a vacuum. 

And, if things go according to plan, neither would play a single minute of important basketball this season. It was a way more important debate in my mind before they paid more than the MLE to keep Gafford. 

How long before we hear anything about him signing? If the Mavs don't sign him, will anyone? This is a dude who was available for 10-day contracts late in the year last season. I don't think there will be much competition for his services.

I think it's well known I'm not high on Powell and what he can provide on the court these days. I agree that if he or Jones were getting any real minutes when it matters, we're in a bad way anyway. I personally just enjoy watching the uber athletic big that brings some excitement on game day. I don't necessarily view him as a player that's going to put it all together and become a rotational Big here for the next 5 years, but I do feel pretty strongly that Powell won't be. So, it's really just a preference thing.

He did average 11/7 in 21 MPG, showing for the first time in his career that he might actually live up to that 19th pick status. He's had a lot of off-court issues the last 4 years. If he's finally got his head right, I think he can play in the NBA is all.