Brandon Williams Expected to Shoulder More Playmaking Duties While Mavericks Revamp Health Staff
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With Kyrie Irving sidelined, the Dallas Mavericks plan to lean on fourth-year guard Brandon Williams to back up D’Angelo Russell as a primary ball-handler.
Williams, 25, averaged 8.3 points and 2.3 assists while shooting 40.0% from three in 33 appearances last season. He impressed head coach Jason Kidd during two Summer League contests in July, posting 16.0 points and 4.5 assists per game. “When he’s healthy, he’s a problem,” Kidd said.
The guard’s health is again in focus after Kidd disclosed on Oct. 1 that Williams strained a hamstring and would miss at least a week. Williams called his status for Saturday’s preseason matchup with Charlotte “day-to-day.” Kidd said he wants to see continued growth when Williams returns, particularly in game management and leadership.
Powell Ready for Increased Minutes
Center Dwight Powell, beginning his 11th season in Dallas, said the current roster’s competitiveness in practice is “a great sign” for the year ahead. With Daniel Gafford injured, Powell is expected to log heavier minutes early. “I try my best to be a spark where I can and lead where I can,” he stated, noting that his role will fluctuate throughout the campaign.
Overhauled Medical and Performance Team
After losing 444 player-games to injury last season, the Mavericks reorganized their health department. Jana Austin was elevated from assistant athletic trainer to head athletic trainer, while former Bulls staffer Geoff Puls was hired to oversee strength and performance. Long-time trainer Dionne Calhoun departed after 21 years, and Johann Bilsborough returns to supervise the group for a second season.
Adjusting to a Different Offensive Approach
Kidd acknowledged that, with Irving recuperating, Dallas will feature a more balanced attack and faster tempo. “This team is different,” he said, adding that the size on the roster should help push the pace. The shift could benefit perimeter scorers such as Russell and Klay Thompson.
Source: Hoops Rumors
