New Starting Line-Up [Discussion Thread]

So, how are we liking the new starting line-up? Last two games with everyone back we've looked solid and the 7 games total with PJ Tucker instead of Ryno have been good too. Stats wise there doesn't seem to be a lot of differences, according to what I can gather from NBA.com. 2nd in offensive efficiency and 1st during the 12 game winning streak and last 7 games. Also 9th / 10th in defensive efficiency so on par with season averages. Rebounding during our streak has been bad, bottom 10 and bottom 5 in offense and defense!

Where the difference seems to be though is simply a different mentality, since we haven't been scoring much more nor giving up much less in the 1st or 3rd quarter where you'd think you might notice some differences. You can see with Tucker in there, who seems to be shooting better as a starter, and Ariza back that they are our most active defensive players and go after it. Since Ryno was being hesitant and PJ shooting well lately, I think this starting line-up might stick until the end of the year.

That's not guaranteed though. MDA said he's riding with what's hot right now and say we lose 1 or 2, he might pursue other options. Maybe Mbah instead of PJ or Ryno back with the starters. Regardless of what stats show or don't show, how do you feel about it? Regardless of the results, I am thrilled about a line-up change. It was obvious Ryno needed a change. You cannot be that hesitant and inconsistent on offense - since he doesn't bring much on defense - and expect to keep starting.

We know with Ryno though that the trade deadline was hanging over his head and he was relieved when it passed so they could get back to just playing ball. Who knows, he might be great if he got a chance to start again. That being said, to me and most people I reckon come play-off time, that defensive mindset and mentality is much more important than scoring. The points will come. We're 12 deep and have 3-4 legit guys who can break down defenses and or go iso.

I personally would like to see Mbah start next to Ariza due to his size, since to me PJ can guard wings as good as bigs and could come off the bench as a 3 and Ryno as a 4. That probably won't happen though, so I'm happy where we're at and hope we keep this change. Gives the starters more power on D, a different look on defense with 2 guys who can stay with the likes of Durant, Curry, Westbrook, PG, Melo etc. and gives Ryno more breathing room and a chance to be that guy off the bench who lights it up. He hasn't been much different as a bench guy than a starter and Tucker definitely has been, so let's keep it rolling I'd say.

Thoughts? Any advanced stats that shows how much better or worse we are?

 

Obviously I meant everyone back as in the starters, so Ariza rounding out that starting unit. Yes our DR% and OR% are horrible during the last 7-12 games. Needs to change!