03-09-2024, 10:40 AM
(03-09-2024, 05:17 AM)Knutsen Wrote: Interesting point. I thought it was more mental because he slipped further down in the hierarchy after PJ was announced as our third scorer. But maybe he was indeed dangled in a deal - as an alternative to Williams for Kuzma maybe? - and is still depressed about it. Would also explain the purpose of the statements that we can imagine extending him and that we need him to win a championship.
I don't think it's necessarily a feelings/emotional thing. It COULD be, but to me it seems more likely that he knows he needs to find a way to help the team in the new confines of the team dynamic and is just pressing a bit to make noticeable impact in a slightly lesser role.
It's quite understandable and human, imo, and doesn't need to reflect a character flaw (although it could).
I think the "we need him" statements are simply explained by the obvious fact that he's strong first 2/3 of this season contributed greatly to the idea that the Mavs were in the race. They actually DO need Hardaway playing well to have a strong end to this season. He IS their bench scoring. Tough to get more obvious than that.