03-31-2021, 01:25 PM
(This post was last modified: 03-31-2021, 01:27 PM by michaeltex.)
I keep using 2011 Mavs as a reference, but that team had multiple players (both starters and subs) who could, and did, carry the team during flat spots. Caron Butler, until he got hurt, was key early in the season. JET had some inconsistencies, but seemed to always turn it on when needed. Dirk, of course. Peja made key contributions, bad back and all. Marion could be a demon inside or in the corner. Stevenson could heat up and make the scoreboard spin. Tyson and Haywood combined to make the 5 a strength rather than a weakness, although TC gets most of the credit. Let's not forget Kidd, who was probably the best basketball mind on the team, and JJB who was instant energy.
I keep looking at the current Mavs and I see some similarities. Luka, KP, THJ, Brunson, Maxi, DFS are sort of the core of the team that can carry them for periods when everyone else is flat. I submit, that we are only a few more contributors from being back to the 2011 level. JJR could possibly contribute, depending on health and desire. Melli excited some of us on his first night and I think we are all eager to test the reality of that. TBH, I still rate the rookies as "incomplete" since there is a lot of potential, but it has not appeared consistently in limited exposure.
I guess my point is that we definitely need a few improvements, but that we may not be as far away (assuming healthy bodies) as some would believe.
Too bad the COVID restrictions are easing. Now they can once again get overwhelmed while having dinner together.
I keep looking at the current Mavs and I see some similarities. Luka, KP, THJ, Brunson, Maxi, DFS are sort of the core of the team that can carry them for periods when everyone else is flat. I submit, that we are only a few more contributors from being back to the 2011 level. JJR could possibly contribute, depending on health and desire. Melli excited some of us on his first night and I think we are all eager to test the reality of that. TBH, I still rate the rookies as "incomplete" since there is a lot of potential, but it has not appeared consistently in limited exposure.
I guess my point is that we definitely need a few improvements, but that we may not be as far away (assuming healthy bodies) as some would believe.
(03-31-2021, 01:22 PM)StepBackJay Wrote: Mavs will find a way to wait around for someone, probably Danny Green again.
Too bad the COVID restrictions are easing. Now they can once again get overwhelmed while having dinner together.