MAVS NEWS: Luka Is Hurt, But is Trudging On | DLive's Mom Passes Away| Maxi OUT

[KillerLeft]

I was thinking about Grant per my earlier point that I dislike him at center with no other size.  Maybe Kidd is searching for a role for him because his playing time could be limited when everyone is healthy?  So he is seeing if they can find minutes at the 5.  I think the answer so far is the Mavs have better options.  But we will see.  Someone is going to lose minutes when everyone is healthy and so far this year Jones he has been better.

I assume he's looking for options to play smaller and more versatile in the front court (with better shooting/spacing to boot) because Kleber's status is such a question mark. Williams isn't going to block shots like Kleber did, but he's probably a little harder to move, mass-wise, and is FOR SURE a better rebounder than Kleber. In every other way, there's reason to believe Williams can function in a similar capacity. I think it's super smart. 

We KNOW (not suspect, KNOW) that the big guys become less playable in 7-game series against the best offenses/defenses during the playoffs. I think Lively will hold up ok (other than being a rookie), but I actually don't know that. He might get iso'd to DEATH and be unplayable. You know who won't? Williams, Kleber (if healthy) and (hate to admit it) Morris. 

Best case scenario, the Mavs have THREE guys who can space, run and defend in the playoffs, and that's on top of whatever they can get from Lively and Powell (might be a LOT from Lively, we'll see) playing a more traditional center role. 

I think preparing for all of THAT is why we're seeing Williams at the 5, and I'm thrilled that it's happening.