<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">It was part experiment, part desperation, but came off as genius. Paul Silas' radical lineup switch to start the fourth quarter Tuesday night was the difference in the Cavaliers' 104-96 victory, freeing them of their three-game losing skid and opening up possibilities. Since the Ricky Davis trade, Silas has been committed to playing LeBron James with defensive-centered veterans Kevin Ollie, Eric Williams, Tony Battie along with Carlos Boozer in the fourth quarter. It worked for a while, with the Cavaliers winning four out of six games after the trade. But over the last three weeks, the team's late-game offense has plunged with the defensive lineup in. It hit rock bottom during the losing streak, in which the team averaged just 14 points in the fourth quarter. So Silas went with shooters Jason Kapono and Dajuan Wagner on Tuesday along with James and an athletic and versatile frontcourt of Darius Miles and DeSagana Diop. The group worked wonders offensively, allowing James to have several options while running the point. The troupe also held its own against the SuperSonics' frantic comeback attempt, outscoring them 26-17 in the fourth. ``Having Juanny and Kapono in helped LeBron because those guys can make shots,'' Silas said after practice Wednesday at the Golden State Warriors' practice facility. ``We found a group that clicked. That was a big step for us.''</div> Full Story
finally silas see's that having kapono in the lineup gives us a viable outside 3 point threat. that can only help our offense and also helps to fre up lebron. I have said from day one kapono should be starting or atleast playing alot more due to his 3 point range.
I like the small lineup for the 4th its a good transition lineup. The team can run up and down the floor, penetrate or kick out to a Wagner or Kapono, We have options to drive to the Hoop to draw fouls with LeBron and Miles (if he can hit a freethrow) and the long arms of Gana in the middle. I just hope this lineup doesnt flop. It seemed to have worked. I hope it works again tonight.
I knew for a long time Diop should start, My genius has paid off for me. Silas, you should listen to me. :mrgreen:
<div class="quote_poster">Quoting Amherstcavsfan:</div><div class="quote_post">I knew for a long time Diop should start, My genius has paid off for me. Silas, you should listen to me. :mrgreen:</div>
I have been talking about Diop here since the start of the season, calling him our "closer" and "center of the future" However he is not ready to start now, he does not have the stamina nor can avoid foul trouble. If he plays a lot this year I believe next year he has a chance to be our starter.
