2020-2021 ROSTER TALK: Archived

[michaeltex]

It will be really interesting to see who will get out of the starting unit once KP returns. It might be totally possible, this will be Powell as Mavs want to keep three switchable wings next to KP and Luka. We have seen against Milwaukee that rebounding wasn't a problem at all as Mavs actually won the rebounding battle  Imagine KP instead of Powell on offense - Lopez would be basically useless as one of the Mavs would be totally open on perimeter all the time. 

Mavs are incredibly deep on the bench. This is great as it will not be difficult to say goodbye to a couple of guys for improvements in the starting unit.

As for Powell - it is important he is playing. His contract is becoming less negative with every game. While his individual numbers aren't impressive it is clear he has a positive impact on the team. Despite missing KP, Mavs had no problems against the "mighty" Milwaukee. 

As for rotation, I think the starting pecking order is quite clear after first two preseason games and I don't expect much changes before KP returns. It is fair that a little bigger sample is collected before making big conclusions. First major change will be made once KP returns (one guy will fall out of starting five to second unit and one guy to third unit). Of course there will be rests, injuries, perhaps COVID, where other guys will get their chance. 

1. Luka
2. JRich
3. THJ
4. DFS
5. Powell
6. Kleber
7. Brunson
8. Burke
9. Johnson
10. Green
11. WCS (currently looking better than Johnson but on extremely small sample - might be used against big centers of Phoenix, LAC and LAL).

Personally, I think WCS gets more burn, especially in B2Bs where they might want to control Powell and KP's minutes. If WCS continues to show reliability on 3pt attempts, then that might change the rotation a bit. I think he already showed some chops as a dive cutter and interior defense. If he can extend his scoring range out to the 3pt line, then he's going to see more minutes. I like the work he's put in and he seems like a good team guy.

TBH, I thought he was just emergency filler once Powell went down and KP had some issues. Figured he'd be gone after the season, but now I'm hopeful he's going to be a contributor and maybe trade goods for another KP-type acquisition. Although I'm just fine with running with what's in camp for a while to see how everything gels.