2021-2022 ROSTER TALK: [ARCHIVED]

[mvossman]

Yes. Smart thinking.

Brunson definitely creates offense. He completely qualifies as the "second creator" (and one who's a really good fit) that we were clamoring to get, as the season began, but couldn't figure out where/how to get.

My perception of his value keeps growing, but I think a big part of that is because his game keeps growing. IMO Letting him go should only happen if the Mavs can exact a Major Return in exchange. But, as hard as it is to find this guy, maybe not even then. For example, I've toyed with the question of "What if you could tell NY you will swap JB to them, if they'd get and send you Collins" and as much as I like Collins, I hesitate. I think JB is that valuable here.

I would have to go with Collins on that one.  His offense would be a perfect fit with Luka, defensively I could see him playing the Powell role, he is younger than Brunson, and he is locked up on a value contract for years.  I also think his game might explode when not playing next to a traditional center.

I think Brunson is more of a defensive liability, and I still worry about his effectiveness against elite defenses, especially in the playoffs.  He is also about to get paid and a flight risk.  I'm also not sold on his mesh with Luka.  He is crazy valuable when Luka is out, but that is going to be 10 minutes max in a playoff game.  When they are together it feels more like "I go, you go" then really playing off each other.  I realize this could improve.

Of course the biggest issue would be replacing Brunson secondary playmaking and creation.  The playmaking should not be that hard, but the creation is rare.  Just not sure how effective it will be when it counts, and don't know if we can keep him regardless.