12-29-2020, 02:39 AM
(12-26-2020, 01:20 PM)KillerLeft Wrote: They’re going to make the playoffs.
Luka will get into rhythm, eventually. Carlisle will figure out how to best use the talent available to him. KP will come back and contribute what he can for as long as he can.
But, I do think expectations for this team are too high. All off-season, I read about how, with Luka and KP in place, all the team needed was to surround them with defenders. I categorically reject this logic. I think the team is levels below that status.
Josh Richardson was a step in the right direction, because he’s a two-way player. I think he’ll fit in well. But, THJ working well here last year offensively was HUGE, and drastically slept on. Powell’s early season contributions were similarly overlooked. The entire offense was built around him. Well, we’re currently seeing what the offense looks like with A) no KP, B) no Curry, C) Powell and Luka not working together (for whatever reason you think is causing that) and D) THJ trying to fill a void on offense by doing things for which he is ill-suited.
And, while we see signs at times that they’re more focused on defense, we’re also seeing that changing the RESULTS on that end is easier said than done. It’s going to take time. Multiple seasons, probably.
This team is what it is, imo. They have a toehold in the top 8 for the western conference (that’s saying something). I have faith that they’ll maintain and build on that, but it’s possible they’ll backslide and miss the playoffs (again, I don’t believe that will happen). Even in the best of possible outcomes for this season, however, I just don’t see how they are even in the same class as either LA team, BRK, Boston, Miami, etc.
The Mavericks’ best player is 21. He is GREAT, but obviously still learning. The rest of the team is pretty young, too, and while I’m quite sure someone will chime in with “27 isn’t young”, what matters is NBA playoff experience. The reality is that overall, this team is a YOUNG team, trying to find their path.
Some of you should really consider trying to enjoy the ride instead of pulling your hair out at every bump in the road. There will be many, many more.
You nailed it as usual. This team is VERY young. J Rich has only played for 5 years now. That's just hitting his prime. He was a 22 year old rook. And he is everything as advertised and then some so far. Great fit with Luka. He's is good off the ball and on it. His defense is very solid. And I'm actually surprised at the level of offense he came in with. I knew he could 3 ball. But, was surprised that he can initiate at times. Mavs got a steal with him. He is what Barnes was advertised to be.
Let's not pretend though that these guys are ready to contend for a title. They are young, they are learning. They will definitely have nights like the Clippers game but they will also have nights like the Lakers game too. Give them time to grow. They still have some pieces to work out I think. KP coming back will take a little more time to adjust. I hope he can stay healthy for the most part. Like KL said, enjoy the ride of this thing. For those of us who were there for Dirk in the early days there will be times when you are ready to celebrate and other times when you want to blow it up. Just grab an adult beverage and enjoy the ride. It's going to be fun.
But, this team is definitely building something for the very near future. Just not today. It will take time still.