Rick Carlisle Talks About Dwight Powell Playing Center

After signing a new four-year deal with the Dallas, Dwight Powell looks to continue his rise into a prominent role in the rotation.

When Dallas decided to make the trade for Rajon Rondo a couple of Decembers ago, they also decided to trade for a rookie named Dwight Powell in the deal also. The young rookie forward was just a skinny kid trying to get his start in the league but found himself being shipped to Dallas in the trade.

Building off his first year in Dallas, Powell averaged a little over 14 minutes a game last season after appearing in 69 games. Struggling to find his spot in the rotation, Powell struggled battling down low at times and finding a consistent jump shot. Possessed with extreme athleticism and high motor, Powell shows a good deal of potential that Dallas is hoping to capitalize on.

When the then 24-year-old hit free agency this past summer, Dallas bet on that potential as they gave Powell a four-year deal.

But what position will Powell play this year off the bench? Will he be the primary backup for Dirk Nowitzki at the four or help give Andrew Bogut a break at the five?

Rick Carlisle touched on the manner at day three of training camp when he mentioned that it’s leaning toward the center spot at the moment.

“He’s going to be at center and some at four. We will see. The way it is shaping up now, it will be a little more five than four. We’ll have to see how Salah is doing. He’s been limited so far.”

Off the bench, Dallas has Powell, Salah Mejri, and Quincy Acy that will probably have a spot in the rotation. With Mejri still dealing with his injury, we should see Powell take time at center during the first part of the preseason.

Long term, I wonder what this means as Salah Mejri had a solid season last year in Dallas. Ultimately, this gives Dallas even more flexibility and athleticism in changing up their lineups.

When Carlisle was asked about Powell putting on weight this summer, he had this to say,

“Yeah he’s stronger. He has gained weight. But its useful weight, not just weight to put on weight. It’s muscle, it’s basketball weight. It’s going to help him really on both ends.”

Next: Carlisle Talks Justin Anderson

If Powell can put on weight and still maintain his top-notch athleticism, then he could find himself in a larger role this coming season.