5 outside the box strategies Mavericks coach Jason Kidd could try in the playoffs

Strategy Dallas Mavericks coach Jason Kidd could try in playoffs: 3. Play 2 big men

The Mavs began the season with Kristaps Porzingis and Dwight Powell starting in the frontcourt, but since the Unicorn was traded to Washington, coach Kidd has favored single big man lineups. Maxi Kleber has shared the floor with Powell for 63 minutes since Feb. 10, which is the most any two big men have played together for Dallas.

The Mavericks are light on big men entering the postseason. Powell, Kleber, Marquese Chriss, and Boban Marjanovic are their only traditional options with Davis Bertans playing more like a stretch four, and Dorian Finney-Smith being an undersized option.

Dallas needs to play stout defense and rebound in the playoffs. Grabbing boards and holding the opposition to one-shot is a key for the Mavs. Could Kidd opt for two big men to improve their rebounding and interior defense? This strategy will depend on Kleber’s shooter and what impact Dwight Powell can make in the series.

Playing two big men on the floor would make sense if the opposition has size and is dominating the interior. It will likely be DP and Maxi sharing time on the court with Chriss and Marjanovic offering depth. Expect to see some units featuring multiple big men in the playoffs.