Much like the point guard position, the center spot was also a source of trouble for the 2012-13 Mavericks squad. Free agent acquisition Chris Kaman did not live up to his promise as his lack of defense and rebounding hurt Dallas in areas they were already deficient in. The saving grace in the middle was the play of Brandan Wright, who Dallas signed to signed to a new multi-year contract this offseason. Although Wright is also not known for his defensive and rebounding work, his efficient offensive finishing skills are big help to a Maverick team that gets most of its shots from the perimeter. Wright however hurt his shoulder during the preseason, and while he shouldn't miss too much time it seems doubtful he will ready opening night.
To replace Kaman as the starting center the Mavs signed veteran Samuel Dalembert to be the anchor defensively that they lacked last year. Although Dalembert saw his minutes decrease in Milwaukee last season his rebounding and blocked shots numbers were still good on a per minute basis. Dalembert's play improved throughout the preseason as his conditioning got better. The key for Dalembert this year will be stay away from foul trouble, as the Mavs can not afford have on the bench for long periods without expecting defensive slippage.
Dejuan Blair was signed from the rival Spurs to help the depth as both 4 and 5 positions. Though he is severely undersized Blair brings a lot of toughness to the table as a rebounder and a scorer. The problem for Blair will come when he tries to match against larger centers who size he can't simply match up with. This is another reason why Dalembert is such an important player for this team as Wright also struggles with larger players due to his skinny frame.
Also back for the Mavs is second year big man Bernard "Sarge" James. James playing time however will be a question mark as the team doesn't seem to look at him as anything but a back of the bench performer beacuse of his limited offensive skill set and advanced age (28), for only being in his second year. James was placed on waivers this offseason, and after going unclaimed returned to Dallas. If the Mavs acquire an extra player this season either via free agency or a trade James could be the one to go.
So while their remains plenty of question marks for the Mavericks at the center position the additions of Dalembert and Blair should count as an upgrade over the lack of production the Mavericks got from the position last season.
No comments:
Post a Comment