04-01-2021, 12:21 PM
(04-01-2021, 10:37 AM)vfromlmf Wrote: Brunson is up to 16th in PER among players listed as point guards.
Brunson and Clarkson are the only non-starters in the top-20.
Boston's 4th quarter defense on Doncic was a preview of what the Mavs will see in the playoffs. Same as last year, teams will blitz Luka and force others to make plays. I had hoped JRich would provide an outlet, but it's clear, the second playmaker who is certain to be on the floor is Brunson.
Outside of that I think you'll see JRich if defense is needed or THJ if he's hot; and we'll see DFS or Kleber depending on matchups and fouls.
Mavs will close games with:
Doncic
Brunson
JRich/THJ
DFS/Kleber
Porzingis
I agree with your line of thinking. Though I will say that blitz action only works if the Mavs run a stagnant offense where Luka is the sole initiator. Further having another elite offensive player punishes that blitz even more, which makes it even more puzzling not having KP out there.
I have to imagine Carlisle will ramp up the offensive complexity/variation come playoff time. We've seen time and again the James Harden way doesn't work. Hopefully Carlisle doesn't fall in the same trap.
14x All-Star, 12x all-NBA, 1x MVP, 1x Finals MVP, 1 NBA Championship: Dirk Nowitzki, the man, the myth, the legend.