TDL Archived: The 2nd Rnd Pick Yankee Swap

[mvossman]

I just fundamentally disagree that we are at a point where we can prioritize what we supposedly "need" in the current structure and the current system. To me our #1 issue is a lack of high level talent. The style of play and system, both offensively and defensively is very likely not what it will be when this team is at a championship level. 

I would argue that with Luka you shouldn't be a top 10 offense. You should be the #1 offense in the league every year. Period. He creates so many easy opportunities its ridiculous. Provide him with a lineup of guys who can take advantage and our efficiency would be though the roof. The fact that we are #8 in offensive rating shows how severely limited the supporting cast is.

Our ceiling as a team is with the #1 offense (one of the best ever) and a top 10 defense. Making proper rotations and playing defense within a system are learnable skills. Teaching guys like DFS, Maxi, Bullock, Kleber to be more than standstill shooters offensively is impossible.

EDIT - Also, the assumption by some with Luka is that he creates all these open 3s so we should just get a bunch of 3 and D guys and shoot 100 3s a game. IMO, the truth is Luka creates all kinds of problem for the defense, not just open shooters. Our reliance on the 3 is because thats all the rest of the roster can do. Its the best way possible for this team to win games. Its not the best way for a future championship level Luka Doncic led Mavs team

I feel like you are using the concepts of talent and assets interchangeably when they are not.  My response was to your claim of needing to add talent (specifically offensive talent) but your first paragraph sounds more like you are talking about assets.  I don't disagree that adding assets makes sense in general, but as I mentioned in another thread, the Hawks are struggling to give Collins away and Wood has never been viewed as a significant asset.  You are talking about Cuban spending an insane tax bill for guys that are not significant assets.

Your goal is the number 1 offense, but we accomplished that a couple of seasons ago with Luka and 4 offensively limited players in the starting lineup (and an offensively limited bench).  I agree with your skepticism that we can significantly change an NBA players offensive skillset.  I am just as skeptical you can throw 4 defensively challenged players into a starting lineup and get a top 10 defense with scheme and "coaching".