How Josh Richardson's game fits in with the Dallas Mavericks
Former Philadelphia 76ers guard Josh Richardson brings effort and intensity to a Mavericks backcourt which is in desperate need of both. "The things that I bring are toughness, defense, and leadership," Richardson said Tuesday at the Dallas Mavericks media day. "I am a gap filler. From night-to-night, I can fill in where I need to." […]
Former Philadelphia 76ers guard Josh Richardson brings effort and intensity to a Mavericks backcourt which is in desperate need of both.
"The things that I bring are toughness, defense, and leadership," Richardson said Tuesday at the Dallas Mavericks media day. "I am a gap filler. From night-to-night, I can fill in where I need to."
Before Dallas:
Richardson joins the Mavs after a difficult year in Philadelphia that saw his scoring average dip from 16.6 to 13.7. But it's important to note that he was playing a different role than he was used to. The 2018-19 season, for Richardson, was one where he was tasked with creating offense for the Heat. The ball was in his hands more. And subsequently, he was making more decisions within the offense for the team.
While in Philadelphia, Richardson played off of Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, and Tobias Harris on most nights. The 76ers played Richardson alongside each of those players for 246 minutes last season. Meaning, for extended periods of the game the ball was out of his hands.
That aspect changed in the playoffs with both Simmons and Harris going down with an injury. Richardson's usage rate in the playoffs rose to 21.8. His per-game averages rose as well–from 13.7 points-per-game to 16.8. He proved that when given the opportunity, he could still produce in big moments. He also proved that in his game, there is a bit of dexterity. Richardson fills in the team's needs on any given night.
What Richardson brings to the Mavericks:
Richardson's experience playing both on and off the ball provides the necessary malleability for the Mavericks headed into this season. Luka Dončić will always be the engine that drives the team, but Richardson compliments him well. The two have known each other for a few years, and there is excitement to finally get a chance to play together.
"I've known him for a little while, and I'm excited to play next to him because he is one of the best playmakers in the NBA," said Richardson. "He has a really high gravity on the court. He’s going to need guys to help take pressure off of him. I think I can take some of the defensive pressure off of him. The other team’s best guard, I’ll usually be picking up, so he can get in where he fits in on defense and handle what he has to on offense."
The two have skillsets that complement each other. And though losing Seth Curry's elite three-point shooting will be a blow for the Mavericks, Richardson offers the team what is needed most in today's NBA–versatility.
How Rick Carlisle implements Richardson's versatility is critical to the Mavericks' success. He is a guy who can play big minutes down the stretch for good teams, he's done it before. Playing alongside Luka will only elevate his game, and take the pressure off of Dončić as the season progresses.
The Mavericks desperately needed a pesky wing defender who could pick up on the opposing team's best offensive player. The team went out and got its guy, now everyone should sit back and see the results.
For more reading check out how Luka Dončić can reach the next level this season.
Feature image via Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
