KP’s defense was strong last night and I love how he bodied up to one of the NBA’s biggest loads in Jokic. That version of KP is a top 30 player in the NBA and probably higher if he defends like that at center.
If the Mavs look to upgrade I think it’s rather simple. A starter will need to push one of JRich, Kleber or DFS to the bench or another team.
JRich is probably your next guy after Luka and KP, just based on minutes and versatility.
That leaves DFS or Kleber. You could make an argument for upgrading either spot but it won’t be easy. Kleber has turned into a fantastic role player; and DFS is just rock solid. That said, looking at Carlisle’s closing lineup with Brunson on the floor you could make the case that swapping DFS for another defender who can create & score makes the most sense.
That leads me to Oladipo who I value as much for his defense as his ability to score. And honestly I think he fits extremely well. People get hung up on offense and but don’t forget, ‘Dipo is an all-NBA caliber defender who will give you most of what DFS does plus much more.
If the Mavs look to upgrade I think it’s rather simple. A starter will need to push one of JRich, Kleber or DFS to the bench or another team.
JRich is probably your next guy after Luka and KP, just based on minutes and versatility.
That leaves DFS or Kleber. You could make an argument for upgrading either spot but it won’t be easy. Kleber has turned into a fantastic role player; and DFS is just rock solid. That said, looking at Carlisle’s closing lineup with Brunson on the floor you could make the case that swapping DFS for another defender who can create & score makes the most sense.
That leads me to Oladipo who I value as much for his defense as his ability to score. And honestly I think he fits extremely well. People get hung up on offense and but don’t forget, ‘Dipo is an all-NBA caliber defender who will give you most of what DFS does plus much more.