The Los Angeles Lakers traded Anthony Davis to the Mavericks in the Luka Doncic deal, and Mavericks’ head coach Jason Kidd is learning exactly why the purple and gold were so frustrated. AD wants to play the four, but is significantly more effective at the five. The Mavs are doing exactly what the Lakers did by not granting his wish.
Since returning to the lineup on Nov. 28, Davis has played all of his minutes at the five. It has resulted in two Mavericks wins and a significantly improved offense. Their scoring has been helped by playing Cooper Flagg at his best position and using a point guard, but using Davis in the optimal role has also been crucial.