Introduction to the New Season
Prior to this season, the Dallas Mavericks knew exactly who their offense would run through. They had two primary ballhandlers who could score with the very best in the league. That’s not the case anymore. Only one of those players remains on the roster. Kyrie Irving, a key piece to the Mavericks’ championship aspirations, is sidelined with a torn ACL.
How will the Mavericks play this season with Anthony Davis as the focal point for the majority of the season, an 18-year-old rookie in Cooper Flagg as their future cornerstone and other veterans who are expected to contribute offensively?
Understanding the Team’s New Style
“I would say playing through one another, playing for one another and trusting the pass,” Thompson said after Tuesday’s training camp practice. “We understand how deep our team is. We have a different personnel than we did last season so we have to play a different style.”
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Playing Inside Out
What exactly is that style? We could see the Mavericks play inside out and use their big men, primarily Davis, as an initiator of the offense. Thompson also said the Mavericks will rely on moving the ball as much as they can.
“We have to play to our strengths and that is cutting off the ball. That’s playing through our big men,” Thompson said. “We understand it could be a different player’s night every night out there. We don’t know who’s going to lead the team in scoring. Obviously AD and Kyrie, but until those guys are in the lineup on a consistent basis, it’s gonna be someone’s turn every night.”
Thompson’s Role in the Team
Thompson averaged 14.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists and was one of the most durable Mavericks last season, appearing in 72 games.
As he enters his second season in Dallas, he’ll be needed for his leadership and scoring ability for the Mavericks to stay afloat until they’re fully healthy. He organized a minicamp for his teammates ahead of the season in Newport Beach, California, which set the tone for Tuesday’s camp opener. Thompson is excited to see the Mavericks develop an identity rooted in competition and perseverance.
“Really, just competing and set the foundation for what’s to come,” Thompson said. “We’re trying to set a standard for the culture here that we’re going to push through adversity, we’re going to play when we’re tired. We’re going to be relentless in chasing our goals and I thought it was a great start to the season for that. It was a lot of fun.”
Conclusion
The Dallas Mavericks are entering a new season with a different team dynamic. With Kyrie Irving sidelined and Anthony Davis as the focal point, the team will have to adapt to a new style of play. Thompson’s leadership and scoring ability will be crucial in the team’s success, and the development of rookie Cooper Flagg will be an exciting aspect to watch. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Mavericks come together as a team and compete in the league.
Find more Mavericks coverage from The Dallas Morning News here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who will be the primary ballhandler for the Mavericks this season?
A: With Kyrie Irving sidelined, the Mavericks will have to rely on other players to handle the ball. Anthony Davis and Thompson will likely take on more ballhandling responsibilities.
Q: How will the Mavericks’ offense change with Anthony Davis as the focal point?
A: The Mavericks will likely play inside out, using their big men, primarily Davis, as an initiator of the offense. They will also rely on moving the ball and cutting off the ball to create scoring opportunities.
Q: What is the significance of Thompson’s minicamp for his teammates?
A: Thompson’s minicamp set the tone for the season and allowed the team to develop a sense of camaraderie and competition. It also gave the team a chance to work on their chemistry and develop an identity rooted in perseverance and competition.
