10-30-2020, 03:08 PM
(10-30-2020, 03:04 PM)michaeltex Wrote: I agree with the 2-star theory. Although we may talk about them together, privately most agree on who's #1 and who's #2 in each paring.
We reference the 2011 Mavs only having Dirk as a single star, but there was a different dynamic at work. While re-watching the playoff run, I noticed that the #2 star role was shared by 3-4 players. JET, Kidd, Marion, maybe JJB and another one or two, all filled the #2 role at different times and different games. If you watch, you'll find times where JET took over a game for a while. There were times when Marion carried the team with both scoring and defense. Kidd's BBIQ was on display for all. This shared role was maybe the most special aspect of the team. Everyone was encouraged to step up if the opportunity presented and not just wait for Dirk to make it happen. Maybe there wasn't a single #2, but there were a lot of #2.5s.
All that said, we have a good 1-2 teamup with Luka and KP. When healthy, maybe as good as any of the others. The Mavs need to strengthen the base and continue to gel. They don't need to turn over 40% of their roster to chase a possible #2 because they already have that.
We must not link term star stricktly with on field performance, imho. Lets say 2018/19, Luka rookie season. Dirk was clearly number 1 star in Dallas. It was his team, no question. He was far from best player on the court.