How Would Chris Webber Fit With The Dallas Mavericks?
August 07 07
The Fort Worth Star Telegram reports that Chris Webber could soon sign with the Dallas Mavericks:
So the Internet’s blowing up tonight (Sunday) with reports that an LA radio station has C-Webb, yes, Chris Webber, ready to sign a deal with the Mavericks, with the Mavs giving him the full mid-level exception, $5.36 million...hey, why not? might as well spend the thing, and C-Webb could become a signature add if his veteran body can hold up and if he’s ready to embrace a reserve role on a team led by a coach with unwavering championship aspirations.
My Quick Take: Detroit or Dallas? That’s been Chris Webber’s dilemma for the last few weeks. Well, it appears C-Webb is leaning towards doing the Texas-two-step with Mark Cuban’s Mavericks.
Let’s be clear: this is only a report. Nothing has been confirmed. However, it’s interesting to speculate on how the forward would fit in Dallas.
The Positives:
- Webber would instantly become Dallas’ best passer. The forward’s exceptional dime-dropping abilities would add a new dimension to Coach Avery Johnson’s half-court sets.
- Webber, after knee surgery, was forced to extend his outside range. He possesses a deadly perimeter shot and would punish opposing defenses that tried to double-up on Dirk Nowitzki, Josh Howard, and Jerry Stackhouse.
Question Marks:
- Webber’s now a perimeter, high-post player. How would he click with Nowitzki, who also likes to play off the left-side of the high post?
- Webber is a below average defender. Everyone on Dallas has to play defense. No exceptions. It’s the Mavericks’ identity. So I’m not sure how Johnson would cope with Webber’s lackluster defense.
The Intangibles:
- Webber and Dallas have something in common: they both have had to deal with bitter losses. Remember, C-Webb’s infamous timeout in the NCAA Finals and subpar playoff performances with the Kings? Well, the Mavericks can relate after blowing a 2-0 lead in the 2006 NBA Finals and losing to the Warriors in the first round of the playoffs. Both Webber and Dallas have something to prove!
All things considered, C-Webb would make Dallas a better team. However, details would have to be ironed out for him to thrive in Texas.
How do you think Webber would fit with Dallas? Get at us in the comment box below with your thoughts.
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