GAME 13 DIRKIE: Winner KP (67%) | Runner-up THJ (24%)

[KillerLeft]

Do you read anything into Kidd's cutting his minutes and not including him in the closing lineup?

Not really. 

For one thing, I think DFS's normal minute pattern was a bit off due to that stretch where he played the 5. Kidd is obviously experimenting with everything other than the starting lineup these days, which I think is probably what he he should be doing (though I'm ready to see Kleber for Powell when he's healthy, personally). 

I think there are areas of overlap with DFS/Bullock, so I get why people are focused on that comparison, but I don't see anything redundant there to the point where either of them should be worried about their jobs. I think BOTH should be playing the kind of minutes that DFS normally plays, and that the two-big lineups should be decreased, gradually. 

Bullock is still slumping as a catch-and-shoot guy relative to our expectations, while DFS is showing signs of finding rhythm. HOWEVER, I agree with those who point out that even in that situation, Bullock's gravity is noticeably different by comparison. In a situation where spacing is the PRIMARY concern, I think Bullock probably needs to be part of the closing lineup. Last night, with Jokic really being the only offensive creator to worry about (no Murray or MPJ), I don't think DFS was needed. 

I do NOT agree that Bullock has shown to be better than DFS defensively, to this point. I think they're both above average, but I think DFS is much more versatile defensively. Uncommonly so, imo. 

I think the ownership he has in this locker room and emotional leadership he provides this team are routinely missed by fans. I think he has almost as much claim to be on a "leadership council" as Hardaway (not meant as a slight against Tim). In short, I believe the organization views him as a core player, not a fringe player, and rightfully so. Things change, and I'm not saying it's impossible to imagine them moving him (the line for his services will form to the left), but I definitely don't think Bullock is somehow making this likely (though I'm happy to have ADDED Bullock). 

I think the occasional night of lowered minutes for DFS is a good thing, for him and for the experience level of those who play more that night. I thought it made sense last night. I do think the Mavs would've won that game with him in the closing lineup, too, however.