DCZards wrote:I don't understand the lack of appreciation for what Bryant contributes to winning. Maybe it's the constant focus on TB's mediocre D that blinds folks to what he does well.
Bryant spaces the floor with his 3pt shooting and always gives max. He also runs the floor extremely well. Just look at all the easy buckets Rui got by running the floor and being on the receiving end of Westbrook passes. Expect the same with Bryant.
And TB has actually improved somewhat on defense...because he works hard to get better.
I'm looking forward to seeing the Bryant/Gafford tandem next season. At this point, I'm not sure which one should start.
I think Gafford should start. And Bertans. We need defense for our starters, and offense in the 2nd unit. A healthy Bertans spreads the floor more than Bryant, which maximizes the Beal Russ combo. Gafford's rearline defense makes Bertans less of a liability. Bryant comes in with energy to frustrate tired starters or score efficiently on 2nd tier talent. Allow him to get his legs back after the injury, and let him play full speed and high energy in shorter stints.
Either way though you can't play Bertans and Bryant together. So pick one to start. The other adds a shot of energy/offense off the bench.
I am actually curious what would happen though if you played Bryant and Gafford at the same time. Does Gafford's defense and Bryant's improving 3 ball make Bryant basically a reasonable substitute for Bertans?