The Rotation (2020-2021)

[StepBackJay]

I really like how you mentioned the position as point forward with Luka and Johnson, but I'm not sure if Rick's lineup has the intention of using Johnson as the main ball handler. The second unit is more likely facilitated with 3 ball handlers all around. I do like how J Johnson assists with the hand-off pass to screen the oncoming player.

Once KP comes back, I see Rick doing his bubble rotation, where he has starting unit of Luka and KP, but subs Luka first in order for KP to be the go-to guy. I see the first substitution go something like this:

OUT: Luka, J.Rich

PG - Burke
SG - THJ
SF - DFS
PF - Powell
C - KP

Then second subs completing the second unit:

PG - Brunson
SG - Burke
SF - Johnson
PF - Maxi
C - Powell/WCS


Or maybe stick with pairing Luka and KP playing exclusively together to create more chemistry. Honestly, Im not sure how the Mavs lineup is going to look like once KP comes back, so many variations, which is a good problem.

There just aren't enough minutes for RC to go 11 deep on nights where its competitive. It's going to be a lot more like 9. Guys get banged up so that will allow JJ/WCS to get minutes then but I don't see how you play KP/Powell/Maxi/JJ/WCS all "big" minutes with KP getting the lion's share from that group. That doesn't even account for DFS who is likely also taking "big" minutes if he remains starting PF. I don't see him coming off the bench. Somethings got to give. I know we like JJ and Rick is experimenting with point forward stuff but I don't think there's enough minutes for JJ once KP is back.