2026 Dallas Mavericks Preseason

[DanSchwartzgan]

I think Max is the better player than ZR as well right now.    I do wonder if they are trying to get ZR into a simple role.  Attack defender, someone who can play well in an up tempo pace, open shooter, limited creator.   Try to really limit his role.  Right now he appears too rushed and playing with little feel...with some flashes.  

While Max comes off the bench and provides stability to the second unit.   I could see that vision and could be something long term that works (I guess).   Right now, I am not sure ZR is really ready for that role.   He may get some chances at it though.  I am expecting a lot of up and downs with him this year.

I heard an Atlanta reporter on some podcast theorize that ZR starting limits what is asked of him and focusing him on just a few things that he is good at is a good thing.  As the theory went, ZR off the bench probably means he shoulders more of a scoring and creation role and now you are no longer playing to his (current) strengths.

I don't think he's beat out Max for the job.  If ZR starts, Max probably closes games and may get more minutes.  As you suggest, the starting is probably more of a developmental thing than a statement of relative worth.  He can look really lost at times, but when he's good, he's good enough that you want to make the investment.