Mavericks: Predicting starting lineup, sixth man, and closers

Predicting Dallas Mavericks starting lineup

Mavs head coach Jason Kidd said on Sept. 29 that, as of right now, he plans to start this lineup.

PG: Luka Doncic

SG: Tim Hardaway Jr.

SF: Dorian Finney-Smith

PF: Kristaps Porzingis

C: Dwight Powell

The Hall of Fame point guard noted on media day that they feel KP is best suited to play the four next to another big man with Powell grabbing the early lead for the spot.

It will be interesting to see how much Kidd changes up his starting five this season. Former head coach Rick Carlisle loved to play the matchups to open the game. The Mavs have Maxi Kleber and Reggie Bullock as options to shift into the starting lineup. Kleber is a big man that defends well on the perimeter, and Bullock is a stout defender and floor spacer. Expect both players to earn starts at points throughout the 82-game regular season.

Porzingis and Powell are looking to bounce back after significant surgeries. Both played last season but were still rounding into form. Will KP have more lateral quickness and be able to protect the rim at an elite level? Does DP get back some of his explosiveness and athleticism? Both players are worth monitoring during preseason action.