Playing Together: Devin Harris & Jason Terry The Dallas Mavericks Starting Backcourt?

Two starting point guards: Devin Harris and Jason Terry. Both have long-term, multi-million dollar contracts. This would be a problem for most NBA teams, but not for Coach Avery Johnson and the Dallas Mavericks: 

"We need Jason Terry. The main thing is Jason Terry is a significant contributor for our ballclub. And we found out that he and Devin Harris can play together. And we found out that they can play independent of one another, too." ( Dallas Morning News, Eddie Sefko)

The news that Harris signed a 5 year, 42 million dollar extension with Dallas sparked speculation about Terry’s future. The Jet would have to fly for another team because Harris’ contract meant that he was the starting point guard.

Not so fast. Last season, the Mavericks were at their best with Harris and Terry starting together in the backcourt. Harris facilitated the offense, while Terry functioned as a Joe Dumars-Terry Porter style combo guard.

Remember, Harris and Terry together helped the Mavericks attack the opposition. And attacking opponents is what they did so well during their successful regular season. It’s also what they stopped doing during their playoff loss to the Warriors.

Harris and Terry as starters also keeps Jerry Stackhouse on the bench. This is a good thing; Stackhouse thrives as sixth man. When coming off the bench, he can focus on getting his points-nothing else. When he starts, the veteran often gets lost because he has to take a backseat to Dirk Nowitzki, Josh Howard, and Terry.

Look for Terry and Harris to form Dallas’ starting backcourt. And look for the Mavericks to have another strong season.

Should Devon Harris and Jason Terry start together in the same backcourt? Get at us in the comment box below with your thoughts.

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