Game 55: San Antonio Spurs (11-43) vs. Dallas Mavericks (31-23)

[Scott41theMavs]

This is an interesting discussion.  

I think Gafford will have a positive impact for us defensively because of a different reason.  He isn't as quick as Maxi or PJ and so won't be able to contest as effectively.  He will, however, be in better rebounding position to secure the defensive rebound.  We were the league's 2nd-worst rebounding team prior to the trade.  It was a huge liability.

Since the trade, we have secured 31 more rebounds than our opponent. Gafford is why.  Gafford is averaging 12 boards per 21 minutes for us.  Gafford won't be able to guard the perimeter like our other rotation bigs.  He'll be the best defensive rebounder we have though and that will make him a net positive on defense.  He will also guard the rim significantly better than DP.  We acquired him to be a backup center and I think he'll thrive in that role.  He's held his own as a starter so far.

I think PJ has a big role in the improved rebounding as well with his boxing out. 

And you alluded to what so many of us Mavs fans have been waiting for for years - Powell as a garbage time/injury player only. Tears of joy.