Tim Hardaway Jr.

[vfromlmf]

I mentioned this in the game thread a few days ago but I'm not surprised THJ got the start. In fact, I expected it and I think it's the right move. 

Bullock earned a long leash based on the WCF run and I expect Kidd stayed loyal to him out of respect. It was a locker room decision. I also bet that Kidd and the rest of the staff have been communicating with Reggie and the "day off," and subsequent move to the bench was no surprise to anyone. Reggie had to play better, but it wasn't working, so next man up.

I also bet THJ's move to the starting lineup was expected. In Kidd's hierarchical locker room, THJ earned the next opportunity to start. He was the starter before he got hurt last year, and he's the veteran. He was also playing terribly off the bench, so something needed to change with him too. 

Like it or not, this team really needs THJ to play well. You certainly can't move him out of the rotation or trade him. So if he's going to play, moving him to the starting lineup might be the best way to get him going. My best guess is this will be a brief audition, and if things don't improve, it will be Green's turn.