Game 65: Dallas Mavericks (36-28) vs. Chicago Bulls (31-33)

[surfpuckmd]

Yes, I found dirkfan's point to be very interesting, and worth discussing. There isn't a lot of that around here these days, so I tried to engage. All of that seems logical to me (the progression you're summarizing there) and it obviously points in the opposite direction of your sense of things, at least to me. For example, it's not "even more significant" that the centers played well against the slowest, plodding center tandem in the NBA. You and I could out run them. It's much LESS significant, because the ability to MOVE is the most non-negotiable part of the game. That's the point, I think, but you seem to think differently, which is fine. I guess I was just surprised that my attempt to engage read to you as negativity. 

I like to talk basketball. Not stats, not hate for my least favorite players on the team, and not (exclusively) roster move suggestions. Those seem to be the only three things happening here anymore. I won't burden you with attempts to do that anymore now that I know it's irking you.

I'm actually really enjoying reading this conversation about our centers and specifically Gafford.  

I'm a big Gafford and I really like what he's bringing us.  I would prefer he be our backup big rather than start though.  I think his ferocity as a rebounder and finisher is exactly what we needed off the bench.  I really appreciate the constant effort that he plays with.  

I understand the plus/minus data isn't good for Gafford thus far but I believe that will improve with time.  I think he made need some time and experience to catch up within our defensive system.  Especially as Jason Kidd is not really a very good communicator and coach.  

Gafford's advanced stats were really good with the Wizards so it's not a stretch to think they'll improve with the Mavericks.  

Most NBA teams continue to play a center in most lineups so I think it's wise to have two capable ones on our roster.  Lively has been hurt a lot and spends a lot of other time in foul trouble.  Gafford is the solution to those problems.