Josh Green’s progression, Jason Kidd undecided at center for Dallas, Denver’s new role players, and Detroit’s bench rotation/lack of shooting.
Dallas Mavericks
His numbers may not wow you, but I’ve been happy with the development of Josh Green. The 2020 #18 pick by the Mavs has averaged 5.4 PPG/2.5 RPG/1.0 SPG/70.0% FG/61.5% 3-PT this season, bringing all the attributes you want out of a versatile role player. Also Dallas head coach Jason Kidd has been known to try different lineups, and he’s doing it again at the starting center position with Dwight Powell & JaVale McGee.
Denver Nuggets
Speaking of role players, Denver’s new additions are fitting the culture perfectly. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Bruce Brown, Christian Braun, and DeAndre Jordan have thrived off keeping the game simple/being great teammates.
Detroit Pistons
Pistons head coach Dwane Casey needs to figure out his bench rotation. He has a good mix of young and older players, but obviously can’t play everyone. To me, who to go with off the bench and their lack of shooting besides Bojan Bogdanovic & Alec Burks are looking like problems that Detroit will have all season.
Quick note: 2021 #42 pick Isaiah Livers has shot the ball well from deep in 27 career games (41.7% 3-PT). So hopefully Livers can keep up the consistency now that he’s healthy.
