GAME 5: MIA (2-3) @ DAL (2-3) | 93-83 win

[RDB]

Last season Maxi started four games and then he was out and Powell was inserted into the starting lineup.  So, anything is possible.  Of course, that was next to a recovering KP and not as a stand alone center.  Big difference.

We don't have a great answer for stand alone center in KP's absence.  Maxi can't do it any better than Powell.  He does a lot of things well defensively, but teams attack him in the post and that isn't a strength.  So, if you are going to try that, you probably have to keep a big in the game with him.  If that is Powell, then a wing sits.  If it is WCS, then Powell and a wing sits.  The other possibility would be starting Willie.  Good things have happened with him in the floor this season.

Dan correct me if I’m wrong but I think the numbers suggest that lineups with Maxie and other 3 point shooters was not very effective last year.  Even when you look at KP’s return, I BELIVE that last year a lineup with Powell, Doncic, THJ, & Finley-Smith was way more effective than if you replaced Powell with Maxi.  Granted we have Richardson now so I don’t know how that would impact things.  Maybe WCS is the better option if that’s the case.  

I believe it was discussed in another thread but I think if you have visions of starting Maxi and getting significant burn, you need a second threat beyond a 3 point threat.  Otherwise everyone is basically competing for the same shot.