Dallas Mavericks: Dwight Powell playing a key role early

The Dallas Mavericks have had some great play from Dwight Powell so far this year. How much can we expect him to contribute going forward this season.

I may not have been strong on the Dwight Powell bandwagon from the start, but I always defended the slowly progressing big man for the Dallas Mavericks. With so many calling for his head in the early years of his career, I always felt like there was more to him if he could achieve his potential.

Now, Powell is looked at as the best player involved in the Rajon Rondo trade fiasco from the 2014-15 season. The youngster went from fighting for time on the court to a key part of the second unit for a good Dallas team. In fact, his numbers continue to get better and better each year.

So what has been the cause for Powell’s great success from last year and into the start of this season? Much of it is because he has put in countless hours at the gym to grow as a player each summer. And a lot of it has to do with his familiarity with the teammates he shares the court with so regularly.

Dwight and J.J. Barea have turned into a very lethal pair coming off the bench. As Powell’s points and alley-oop totals continue to grow, Barea’s assist numbers continue to climb as well. J.J. continues to show that he can beat the other team with his own shooting, which has done well to pull defenders off of Powell and open up that lob opportunity.

I don’t want to give Powell’s credit to Barea exclusively, however, as DP has gotten very good at getting to his spot quickly and with his head on a swivel in order to time his jump right. His timing, explosiveness and catching ability are all so improved that it is hard to believe this is the same guy that came to Dallas in 2015.

A lot of people want to know if Powell can keep up with his current pace throughout the season. I’m not sure that he can, but I do believe that he will be better this year than he was last. His decision making this year has been really impressive and it has just been exciting to watch him night in and night out.

Powell will continue to be a very important piece for Dallas this season, no matter how much the guys may learn to fit with DeAndre Jordan. Powell brings a different approach and a unique style that works really well with the Mavs team. His energy level may be one of the most important parts of the bench unit that has done so well this year.

The Mavs are struggling in some areas so far this year. The starters are still learning how to play together and the team is missing key contributors in Dirk Nowitzki and Harrison Barnes. At least we have Powell doing his part for the team.