The Dallas Mavericks are facing an early strategic challenge this season centered around their recent acquisition of veteran point guard D’Angelo Russell. With Kyrie Irving expected to miss a significant portion of the season due to injury, the Mavericks sought to bolster their roster with Russell, but his arrival has raised questions about the team’s defensive capabilities.
A key concern is whether starting Russell alongside Klay Thompson will allow the Mavericks to field their best defensive lineup. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon highlights that this combination might restrict the Mavericks’ defensive options. Last season, P.J. Washington frequently took on the toughest perimeter assignments, although he has come off the bench in the first two preseason games. This brings into question whether the Mavericks would be better served starting Washington and utilizing 18-year-old Cooper Flagg as the primary ball handler, a strategy employed by head coach Jason Kidd in a recent matchup against the Utah Jazz while Russell was resting.
Opting for a starting lineup that includes Washington instead of Russell could provide the Mavericks with enhanced length and defensive ability, without sacrificing much on the offensive side. Although Russell is noted for his shooting prowess and playmaking skills, Washington, now in his prime, offers a quality scoring option along with his strong defensive presence.
The Mavericks’ success this season may hinge on Flagg’s ability to effectively manage the point guard position. Having been groomed in that role over the summer, Flagg’s time to shine might be arriving sooner than expected. If Kidd decides to entrust Flagg with the point guard duties from the season’s outset, the Mavericks could potentially make significant strides this season.
The dynamic changes within the team present both challenges and opportunities, fostering an exciting atmosphere as the Mavericks aim to assert themselves in the competitive NBA landscape. The blending of veteran talent with emerging stars may yield positive results for the franchise as they look to make an impact in the upcoming season.