07-02-2024, 09:16 AM
(07-02-2024, 09:08 AM)michaeltex Wrote: Two thoughts/questions....
Is the move to a starting role just reflective of Lively's defensive strength, or does the staff feel like he's bringing more to the table offensively? For example, will he be freed to step away from the basket to take shots and not just roll down for the lob?
Secondly, there is some interest in Lively's potential as a corner 3pt weapon. I have no problem with him exploiting that skill, provided it is a consistent result. But is Lively on the perimeter really what we want? Sure it maybe opens lanes for Luka/Kyrie, but doesn't that take him away from rebounding, especially offensive rebounds that were key to a lot of the post-TDL success last season?
For me it will be matchup dependent. We know the Mavs can dominate with the traditional 4-1 offense but against teams like the Celtics they can use him in the 5-out style you’re describing. The sky is the limit for that kid. Adding a player like Klay will help with some of that motion style, 5-out offense also. It’s really just about being more versatile and having the ability to attack different matchups/teams.