So I completely understand the deals Dallas gave to Jordan and Matthews. No doubt that they are a better defensive team next year. They also really had to do those deals to stay relevant in the Dirk era.
HOWEVER, I don't see who initiates their offense. A huge part of Jordan's success was due to Chris Paul. A large part of Matthews' success was because of Lillard's ability to create. Dirk is not a creator, Matthews is not a creator, Jordan obviously isn't.
I keep hearing that Dallas wants Parsons to play "point forward." What the hell makes them think that Parsons can do that? I remember Parsons being an above average slasher on the secondary action (e.g. Harden drives and kicks to Parsons who then drives. We saw Ariza be terrible at this same action this year) I distinctly remember a few games where we did give Parsons the keys a little bit (didn't we do this against Portland in the playoffs?) and he was awful, a turnover machine.
I think, without someone who can really suck in a defense on the drive, the Mavericks will struggle on offense. They don't really have a pick and roll partner for Jordan, where he thrives.
I read on ESPN that someone said this hurts the Clippers more than it helps the Mavs. I agree entirely with that assessment. The Clippers' already pathetic front court has just taken a huge hit. They almost have to trade Crawford for a 5. They may try playing Griffin at the 5, but that's not sustainable over a whole season.
Overall, I expect both teams to compete with the Pelicans for the bottom half of the Western Conference playoffs, while the Trailblazer drop out.
What does everyone else think?
