Oct 12, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Kevin Martin (23) goes to the basket against Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) at Air Canada Centre. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports
Loser #1: Both Shooting Guards
You may have been expecting to see LaVine in the winner category. That could be justified, as he impressed enough in training camp to have Sam Mitchell name him the starting shooting guard.
In three preseason games, however, LaVine has looked like anything but a starting shooting guard. His shot has been askew, as he shot 2-11 in the first game, 1-8 in the second, and 3-10 in the most recent game. He has offered little of anything else, averaging just three rebounds and 2.3 assists.
Kevin Martin hasn’t had much of a chance to work himself back into the starting spot, as he’s been given just 11.3 minutes of playing time per game. The coaches are familiar with Martin and know the type of player he is, which is helpful for him. If LaVine continues to flounder, Martin could quickly find himself back in the starting role while LaVine figures out his game.
I think that bringing Martin off the bench is best for the franchise. He can score in bunches on a second unit that really has only one other scorer (Shabazz Muhammad). Martin will likely replace LaVine in crunch time as well. Defenders will be much less likely to help off of Martin – a proven scorer and great spot-up shooter – opening up space for the other starters to operate.
Mitchell said that he only has “penciled in” LaVine for the starting spot. If his struggles continue several games into the regular season, Martin may be back to starting again.
Next: Loser #2: The Defense, As Always