The Rotation (2020-2021)

[StepBackJay]

DFS needs to play alongside two bigs to be most effective. The Mavs are NOT at their best with him at PF/4.

Maybe this is why the Mavs paid a 2nd round pick for Johnson and wanted Gallinari so bad. They know that DFS is NOT a PF/4 and cannot play heavy minutes there. And KP is out to start....and DP is a question mark.

Yeah, I can buy the above. Kind of puts THJ's role in more jeopardy than I thought, if the Mavs see what you see. I agree that DFS is more 3 than a 4, for sure. 

I wonder if Kleber or Johnson might get DFS's spot if/when Powell goes how @"dirkfansince1998" thinks he will. That would keep THJ in the starting lineup but still feature TWO plus defenders.

The other thing is looking at salary hierarchy which doesn't matter a ton but is a consideration would have KP, J Rich, Johnson & THJ as your highest paid supporting cast around Luka with Powell coming in just under J Rich in salary. DFS is paid as a guy that you can use as a starter or off the bench.

My hope is that Rick at some point goes with Luka, THJ, J Rich, Johnson, KP and then keeps Maxi and Powell together off the bench where they have had success. They would be reunited with DFS who also does well with those guys off the bench. That wouldn't upset the salary dynamics either. If you 5-10 spots are Brunson, Burke, DFS, Maxi, Powell with Boban and WCS being part of your center committee I think that's pretty good. That doesn't include potential contributions from rookies.

This all hinges on the idea that Johnson is a guy they really do value and want to use as a part of the regular rotation. That is the million dollar question. He could be a guy used heavily or a guy that sits on the bench and never plays. I am going to be optimistic and say he does play bc he has a lot of what the Mavs need.