Ever since Diop took over the starting center role, and Dampier was shifted down to the bench, Dallas as gone 10-0. Does this mean or does anybody officially know that Diop has permantly taken over the starting center spot for the season over Damiper
He should be starting from this point forward, and it seems people are satisfied with Dampier's contributions off the bench. Although its a lot of money to be paying a bench player.
Dampier's contributions on the bench > Dampiers contributions as a starter. I dont think it is so much Diop starting as it is Dampier having to step up for playing time instead of being the lazy Damp that we are used to. So far it definately has worked; if it aint broke, dont fix it.
Dampier doesn't like playing with Dirk on the floor.. I think Dampier just matches well with the second string Centers of the opposition. When coming off the bench, he can be more aggressive and not worry about picking fouls and getting to the bench. Diop is a better post and help side defender than Dampier, and helps the team especially when Dirk is on the floor. Avery really needs to be credited for making such a bold move and its really paying off.
I agree that Dampier seems to be more offensive minded with his size while Diop has used his size to stop people before looking to score. I think the coaches are handling this unusual situation pretty well, by putting our best defensive center on the floor at the start of the game we let Duncan, Yao, Pau, PJ, Shaq, Wallace, whomever, know we have alot of big bodies you'll have to work real hard to score over and around; and having a center who loves to reject little guys keeps the basket from being repeatedly attacked by speedy lay-up artists like Nash, Paul, Iverson......... Dallas' dilemma is how to keep M'Benga from jumping to the Hornets or Suns. An athletic behemoth with an All Star PG can and should be an irresistable arrangement for the recipient of the pass.
