2020-2021 MAVS NEWS: Archived

[mavsluvr]

He hasn't called players out by name, but he has given several indications that he prefers to be the 5, and that he prefers to be directly involved in the actions, playing off of the ball-handler, as opposed to spacing for Luka/someone else to run actions. 

By default, this eliminates Powell and WCS, because they don't have the ability to play the spacer role. My hypothesis from a few days back, and what Dan is saying above, is that this creates a situation wherein Carlisle can only truly commit to three bigs on any given night. To play four of them consistently, another stretch big is required.

Thanks for the clarification, KL. 

I guess I interpreted KP's remarks as meaning that he prefers to play a certain role, and that role entails a floor spacer at the four. I didn't interpret them as meaning that he doesn't even want to play if WCS or DP is on the court. 

WCS and DP don't usually play many minutes any more, and I think KP should and would be willing to cooperate with playing with one of them for a few minutes per game, even if that's not his preferred role. 

Nevertheless, I take your and Dan's point. If KP insists on playing most of his minutes in a way which is incompatible with a non-shooting four, then it doesn't make sense to keep paying DP big money for a combination of small minutes and DNP-CDs. 

I am not sure this situation has totally shaken out yet. But it bears following, to be sure.