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

[KillerLeft]

Lively will be able to stay on the court as long as the Mavs have four guys with him who can shoot at least like an average NBA player. Defensively, he’s far more dominant, agile and faster than Williams. He’ll never be too slow defensively. He’s matchup proof on that side of the floor. If anything, it’s power players who’ll be most difficult for him. Lively’s role has nothing to do with how Williams is being used other than the Mavs just trying to find 20 decently played center minutes for when he isn’t in the game (we probably agree on that part).

Man, you're a lot more sure about this than I am. 

I'm a huge fan of what Lively has brought to the table, but it has all been pretty simple. If there's some evidence that he can match up on the perimeter against a ball-handler, 1-on-1, I haven't seen it. I do think his athletic profile suggests he'll have a chance to develop some skills like that, but..."he'll never be too slow, defensively?" I just don't know how you can make that claim. He might be too slow NOW to do some of what's in my head as we talk about this. 

I hope this isn't coming across as a lack of support for Lively. I love that he's here! I just don't think we should be surprised if he gets played of the floor in the playoffs (IF), because he's a rookie, and because players his size just have a tough time in today's game. If/when that happens, it won't be a Poetl or an Ayton the Mavs will need to turn to for help. It will be a Kleber or a Williams (a version of that type who knows their role here and is ready to play it well).