Dallas Mavericks: J.J. Barea will play a key role down the stretch

Will he play more down the stretch?

J.J. Barea has only played in 17 of 55 games so far this season. Even with injuries to Luka Doncic and Tim Hardaway Jr. over the last two months, he has seen action in just nine contests since the calendar flipped to 2020. Will he get more run in the final 27 games?

It is an important question. The Dallas Mavericks need him to be ready for the playoffs. That likely means finding him some additional playing time down the stretch. He will not play in every game. That is a positive. Barea is 35 and needs to stay healthy too. Expect him to see more regular action, though.

The Mavs still have a glut of guards that Coach Carlisle is trying to find minutes for down the stretch. Playing Barea likely mean less time for Delon Wright or Jalen Brunson. The Mavs are going to have to decide who gives them the best chance at postseason success and go with that option. Barea has the leg up in experience and leading the second unit. Wright has the defense which could limit Brunson’s time.

Keep an eye on the guard rotation down the stretch. The Mavericks have options but will be looking to pair things down for the playoffs. That means playing their top players more and limiting other talents. Stay tuned to see how it all shakes out.