05-13-2021, 06:01 AM
(05-12-2021, 10:34 PM)omahen Wrote: A couple of my thoughts on the rotation. Not really a fan of a super offensive starting unit, as questionable defense can get the opponent going early. Also, it seemed like there are not enough shots to go around with Luka, KP and THJ together.
We've seen 14 minutes of that starting five playing together in any capacity all season. It was tonight against scrubs. They were +6 and the O/D ratings are 130/113.8. We've run so little KP with either Powell or Willie that it is hard to know how it will play out defensively.
I agree defense is a concern. I don't think KP with WCS works for any real stretch, but this rotation avoided it except for a brief moment. It puts the pressure on Powell to deliver good Team D. The other side of the coin is there is so much O there that maybe we'll get off to hotter starts. There is a lot to cover with Powell rolling, Luka probing and KP/THJ/DFS on the perimeter. It is more that that opening 6-7 minutes of each half for me though. I like how it sets up the rest of the rotation.
C: Always a rim runner
PF: Always an outside shooter between KP/Maxi
SF: JRich played when Finney sat meaning one was on the court at all times
Scorers: Basically two of Luka/THJ/Brunson on the court at all times except the brief Burke cameo which sets up the finish to the half.
It doesn't have to be Burke. It can be Green or more minutes from JRich.
Like I said, I have no idea if it will last (and Carlisle said lineups are transitory). This is the fourth time Powell and KP have started together. It worked well last season and in four games this season KP has had 19 points in 3 of those games on 49% from the field and 43% from three. In two of those games he only played 20-22 minutes because we didn't need more from him.