Reading too much into a lineup change happens all the time. So when the Golden State Warriors used Mickael Pietrus in the starting lineup, it was at least a little unusual. Pietrus has started just one other time since Nov. 19. So what could the reasoning be behind his start? It's no secret that the Mavericks have thought Pietrus is the sort of player that would fit well in coach Avery Johnson's system. When he was a restricted free agent this off-season, the Mavericks made the obligatory calls to Pietrus' agent if for nothing else than to kick the tires. Could Pietrus' start on Wednesday have been a chance to showcase him for the Mavericks? Maybe it's a coincidence, but maybe not, considering that the first day Pietrus could be traded was New Year's Day, three months after he signed his contract. Things did not go swimmingly in his start. The 6-6 guard, who in a vintage Don Nelson move was listed as the starting center, had only eight points. But perhaps it's noteworthy that six of his points came on a pair of corner 3-point shots, something the Mavericks always crave.
i dont even like pietrus. although every once an while he has a good game. i was hoping to get chris webber in the off season instead of juwan howard
