Mavs 108, Rockets 133

[burekemde]

Not sure we disagree. I like the all-two-way lineup, and do expect we will see a lot of it. But it doesn't have enough offense for the team to marginalize the shooters. I predict we'll see THJ in closing lineups rather than Rich/DFS in many cases, or maybe a O/D substitution with one of those. Or a lineup with JRich, THJ, DFS/Maxi.

ML, I think for sure that our all-two-way lineup has a chance to break down completely and disassemble, in case JRich, DFS and Maxi shoot bad. It will not work, even with the great defense. Two of them need to at least shoot well, and preferably all 3 should be solid enough not be left alone. We cant accept double teams on Luka and KP, that will work if one of the above dont shoot well enough.

Jrich, Maxi and DFS will have ton of open looks, so much we know with Luka and KP on the team. It really comes down to this, how succesful it will be, and how well Mavs will do. Because defensively, this lineup can and most likely will dominate, much more than any lineup with THJ in it. Without offensive production, it will however break down, and we will see a lot of THJ.

We will/would see quiet some THJ even if works well. I dont think he will even be or should be a marginal player.

Maxi has been amazing shooter this season, I am not worried about him. It comes more down to DFS and Jrich. I think JRich will start shooting great, once he gets in rhytm with Luka. He will get more open shots than ever in his career. He will get it going. I think/hope at least.

EDIT: BTW, I think that the all-two-way-lineup also has the advantage of having Maxi and KP. I think KP is best as roll man, and getting in the pain and with PnR with Luka. Instead of just sitting outside and making 3s. And in this way, Maxi can be that big doing that, stretching. Given how well he shoots, he would do this role very well. I think this would make a great fit. 

Essentially you have JRich, DFS, Maxi stretching, while Luka/KP attack and destroy the paint. All 5 defend well. As you write, it really comes down to how well JRich/DFS/Maxi will shoot. Because they will be open.