Depth Behind Chandler Parsons Still Extremely Important
By Reid Hanson
Chandler Parsons may be cleared to play, but the depth behind remains extremely important.
With a chance to face-off against his former team in the first round of the NBA playoffs, you can bet Chandler Parsons intends to play, but after being out for over two weeks, how many minutes can reasonably be expected?
"“You can simulate an NBA game as much as you want to on a ,or the treadmill, or on the court with nobody around, but it’s not the same as chasing James Harden and Trevor Ariza around,” Rick Carlisle said. “…in terms of minutes, I don’t know that…”"
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That is why the depth behind the dynamic offensive player is so important. To expect Parsons to play his typical 33 minutes a game may be a little optimistic – even in the playoffs. Players like Richard Jefferson and Al-Farouq Aminu will be leaned on heavily this series. Both players back up Chandler Parsons’ SF position, and both players will need to be assets rather than liabilities when on the court.
It’s difficult to project how many minutes Parsons will play, and the Mavericks will likely adapt as the game progresses. Jefferson and Aminu will need to be ready at a moment’s notice, because not even Parsons himself knows exactly what to expect.
"“I definitely feel much better today,” said Parsons after Friday practice. “I was able to get through everything and went up and down and did all the contact stuff. I definitely made a lot of progress from the last couple of days until now. I’m feeling much better. Hopefully no setback from now until tomorrow, but if all goes well, I should play.”"
It will be difficult replacing Chandler Parsons on the offensive side of the court. Parsons is the Mavericks’ 3rd leading scorer averaging 15.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. He’s a threat to shoot from the outside, as well as drive to the basket. Parsons is instrumental in spreading the court in a way Aminu can’t approach. Offensively, the bulk of the burden will fall on Richard Jefferson to pick up the slack.
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Defensively, the 6’9”Al-Farouq Aminu can do everything Chandler Parsons does, and even a little more. Al-Farouq Aminu has already established himself as key component in the Mavericks’ machine. His long reach and defensive tenacity cause problems for opponents attempting to execute a half-court offense.
Averaging 17.8 minutes per game already, Aminu can keep his defensive intensity without demanding involvement in the offense. Opponents are shooting only 39.3% at the rim against him, which is easily the best on the team. The major downside with replacing Parsons with Aminu, is on the offensive side of the court.
Rick Carlisle has the players, but he’s going to have to strategically use them in a way that takes advantage of their strengths, rather than exposes their weaknesses.
Next: Parsons Has Been Worth Every Penny
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