2020-2021 ROSTER TALK: Archived

[StepBackJay]

I don’t agree.

My thinking (only 3 games in) is that the combo of Richardson, Luka and THJ is a little small. I feel like A) Richardson’s guard skills on offense and B) DFS’s shooting off of the catch complement each other enough to lessen the need for Hardaway to be in the starting lineup, whether he’s playing well or not. 

I REALLY think the team’s biggest weakness is the 4. I’m not married to DFS as a starter, but I’m not ready to give up on that, either, so I think giving him some time as the starting 3 is logical. If that works as I expect, this thing might be one starter (a 4 - either a very strong, long forward or a very quick, agile, smart big) away.

So, my thinking is that with either Hield or THJ should be a bench player. It’s only three games in, again, but if I still feel that way at the deadline, give me THJ.  OR, use THJ to acquire that 4, not to acquire the same type of player.

I think Rick believes defensively he has two guards Rich, THJ then 2 forwards, Luka, DFS with a center (right now Powell but eventually KP). I don't think he wants to go bigger honestly.

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I helped drive the Hield bus for a while this off-season, but now I’m thinking I’d rather have whichever player (he or THJ) would be less likely to cause trouble about coming off of the bench. Since I believe that’s Hardaway, who we already know loves it here and fits into the culture, I think I’m into playing this out. 

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a THJ apologist, but if he hasn’t found a role here that makes sense for the team by the trade deadline, I’m into moving him...I just don’t know that another guard with a similar game who expects to start and finish games would be my preference. 

Then again, so many things might look completely different by then.

My issue with THJ is he is a chucker. I hoped he turned a page last year but clearly he hasn't. His chucking is disguised when Mavs are full strength. I don't know if Hield has the same tendencies but even if he does he looks to be a much more efficient scorer so give me Hield. I don't think Rick wants to go big in the starting lineup so Hield in my view fits the mold of what Rick wants to do.