(02-13-2020, 11:23 AM)DanSchwartzman Wrote: Thanks for bringing up those numbers. It pains me to say this, but part of KP’s improved play is probably tied to Powell’s injury. Despite all the complaints about Powell, the team played well when he was on the court. As you say, Powell with the other four is +10 and Maxi with the other four is -5.5. Powell was very involved in the offense and very efficient which basically made KP the fourth priority among the starters. With Powell gone, KP has to be counted on more and hopefully with the rust starting to shake off will be as good in the offensive role (or roll) as he’s been recently.
What I find fascinating now is who is our 5th starter. I agree Seth is killing it, but I think he Is best used as the first guy off the bench. He can finish games much like Terry did. Maybe the 5th starter is situational. If Maxi is needed for size, he starts. If MKG is needed to defend a mobile PF or large wing, he starts. If a team has a guy capable of effectively defending Luka, maybe Seth starts (I might have said Brunson or Wright, but neither has seemed to fit that well with Luka).
The other interesting thing is figuring out the implications for next summer. Donnie pretty amazingly grabbed two fairly youngish former top 5 picks for free. I think MKG may surprise us. I think WCS is a bench 5 and MKG is a 4 who probably can’t play in lineups with WCS (so he has to be in with KP or Maxi). If both stick we are arguably up to 10 good rotation players (not counting Powell and Jackson) and we don’t have an obvious 5th starter. Almost the entire team has an area of specialization they are really good at. It will be interesting to see which of those valuable roles we are willing to give up for someone who can be more of a complete two-way player. They could literally be any position 1-4 and fit on this roster.
Great analysis! We've stockpiled good role players on good contracts. I think the best possible addition to the starting lineup would be that much discussed big wing who can shoot and play defense to play the 4 next to KP. But since we're versatile, as you note, then we may be able to just try for BPA and adjust the good role players accordingly.
(02-13-2020, 11:30 AM)embellisher Wrote: And that’s why a healthy Seth is almost as important as a healthy Luka.
I'm a Sethite, but settle down there partner