Rick Carlisle talks all things Dallas Mavericks including return to play

Rick Carlisle talks all things Dallas Mavericks

The Dallas Mavericks brought in Rick Carlisle in 2008. Dirk Nowitzki was in his prime but had yet to win a title. The Mavs believed Carlisle was the man to lead that charge.

He did just that. Helping them win a crown in 2011. Carlisle’s teams made the playoffs in seven of his first eight seasons. He has proven to be one of the NBA’s best coaches throughout his tenure in Dallas. Carlisle is also the President of the National Basketball Coaches Association.

The Dallas Mavericks head man went on the Hoops, Adjacent podcast with David Aldridge on May 22. He discussed all things Mavs including the return to play. Let us take a look at a few quotes.

Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle on returning to play

Carlisle was asked his thoughts on the NBA returning to play this season. He had this to say.

"“I’m optimistic. It just feels like things are moving in what I would characterize as a generally good direction in terms of our ability to test, control an environment, and things like that.”"

Carlisle also went on to state that the players have the desire to play, but know the severity of the situation.

Should they return to regular season or jump to playoffs?

Carlisle was asked about his thoughts on the NBA moving right into the playoffs when they return. Here is what he had to say.

"“If we can get it started back up, playing more regular season games first would be optimal because it would give players a chance to re-immerse in the rhythm of the season.”"

The league wants to crown a champion in 2020. It will be interesting to see how they decide the best way of doing that is later this summer.

On Mavs offense

Mavericks fans know by now that the team produced a historic offensive rating this season. Carlisle was asked about their success on that end of the floor.

"“Our brain trust did a great job of signing guys that fit into what we planned to do with Luka Doncic, with Kristaps Porzingis. Seth Curry was a guy that really enhanced our situation… Look a lot of this starts with Doncic and Porzingis. You are talking about two guys that are long range threats that drive the ball. They can pass and make plays and get guys good looks at shots and threes. We were able to create a lot of high shot value opportunities. A lot of this, in the NBA, the success of the team comes down to who your best players are.”"

On what Mavericks will focus on going forward

Carlisle quickly pivoted to what the team’s focus will be as they return to play. Here is what he had to say.

"“Coming out of the hiatus, the majority of our emphasis is going to be to continue to improve defensively. We started out the season somewhere in the 20s rank-wise. We’re now up in sort of the middle ranks of all the teams in the league, and we want to keep moving up. Our goal is to get in the top 10.”"

The Mavs locking in on defense would make them one of the best teams in the NBA. They are tough to stop. Making improvements on the defensive end could take them to another level.

Rick Carlisle also discusses their emphasis on offensive rebounding, Dirk Nowitzki, The Last Dance, and so much more in the wide-ranging interview. Dallas Mavericks supporters should check it out if they have some extra time.