Darren wrote:Both Roby and Reaves show flashes offensively. Unfortunately, this team needs defense out of anywhere. None of them is able to contend no. 59, who looks like easily defensible. That's really bad. The decision making in switches (getting to the right spot with better court awareness) and to close out on perimeter is still weak. Of course, the duo doesn't get blowed by a lot compared to game 1. It's still improvement. Maybe fans are expecting too much from the kids. The Mavs does need somebody who can shutdown anyone (including elite starters). At least, Roby is not avoiding contact in paint. But still, Roby has to be able to guard the perimeter. Otherwise, there's no chance Roby makes the team. The team resign DFS for a reason.
Whittington and Yudai plays smart and truely understand the role second game in a role. But of course, Cleveland is still the most ready player on the court. A step ahead of Payne. Macon is still the same self compared with last year. Not much improvement unfortunately. Comparatively, Kostas has matured a lot in term of moving without the ball and defending the paint. Still, Kostas sometimes let an opened dunk happen. The court awareness is still not enough.
Roby and Reaves playing good offense is a bonus considering they were coveted for their defense.
I wouldn't give up on either one of them but the Mavs simply have to move on from Kostas.
Whittington looked pretty good shooting the 3 but I don't see a roster spot opening for him.