Building Around Cooper: A Backward-Looking Thought Experiment

[Scott41theMavs]

PJ is a tough one.   He has been bad for a while.   I was off from the beginning of the season.  I didn't think we were a contender, but thought a healthy AD/Lively and a resigned Gafford/PJ would put this team on the right path.  That didn't happen and they are further away then I was anticipating.   On the other hand, Cooper has advanced so fast that the future can still be bright.

My bigger issues with PJ is he has looked lost trying to guard players on the perimeter.  That needs to change.    Can he fit with Flagg?  Not sure, but I think ideally he needs to play with at least three good creators and people who can spread the floor.  You really want to limit him dribbling or creating.  Same with shooting.  Limit to open shots.   He needs to be a super glue guy. I think he has that in him, but he needs to be able to defend on the perimeter.  Right now it looks like he is much more comfortable dropping back in the lane.   If he can be a 13 and 7 guy with good size and athleticism who can play solid defense, I think his contract is ok.    I just think we have not seen it much this year.  

As far as Cooper, he is easy to build around.   It is common GM speak to say you want smart and tough players.    Although it is true.    Cooper can make a lot of play styles work.   I think the Boston championship team and Cooper's Duke team are prime examples on the perfect build though.   Neither had true point guards but they had 4 guys one the court who could create.   They were physical and tall.    They could shoot.   I think the path is pretty straight forward.  Finding a Robin would help immensely though as you would have the foundation well on its way.

I like the Boston model.

Are you saying there's no more "P-Jail?"