Luke Walton Needs To Do What Dave Joerger Didn’t, Start Marvin Bagley
With Dave Joerger gone, Luke Walton will inherit the Sacramento Kings coaching job. One of his biggest decisions as coach will be how to play Marvin Bagley. The soon to be 2-year NBA star, has proven he’s a viable starter. Will Walton opt to play the Duke alum more with the starting unit?
Bagley showcased his talents this season. He was one of the three best rookies of the 2018-19 NBA season. With 14.9 points and 7.6 rebounds, he was among the leaders in rookies for both categories. As a second-year player, Bagley now was the chance to take the step towards All-Star.
To accomplish a trip to play with the other elite NBA players, Bagley will need to get starting minutes. While he’s good as a bench option (14.5 points, 7.3 rebounds), the numbers as a starter are far more impressive. During Bagley’s 5 games as a starter, he averaged 20 points and 11.5 rebounds (4.3 offensive).
The proof is in the pudding. Bagley is a much more effective starter. Why Joerger didn’t see that isn’t known. This is what Walton needs to address. Playing Marvin Bagley as a starter has a significant effect on the Kings.
With starters, De’Aaron Fox, Buddy Hield, Harrison Barnes (assumed), and a center, a position the Sacramento Kings will address this off-season, Bagley has the opportunity to slide into the starting power forward position. Joerger had his chances, but never actually pulled the trigger. In fact, he played Barnes out of position before starting Bagley full-time.
It helps that Bagley is versatile. He can also slide into the center spot as well. This makes it easier for Walton to use his big men. Depending on matchup, Bagley could start at the 5 or switch to center during the game. It’s a chance for him to get more minutes on the court. Evident by his 4.3 offensive rebounds as a starter, Bagley can more than hold his own.
There was never a clear reason why Joerger didn’t start Bagley. Perhaps the Kings would have made the playoffs if he did. Injuries did affect Bagley during his rookie career. Many believe the injuries were one of the main contributors to the Kings second half downward spiral. This just sets up the narrative that Bagley is needed on the court in crucial moments.
By starting Marvin Bagley, Luke Walton gets his star player on the court when he needs him most. Teams will be getting a full dosage of Bagley. As proven last year, that’s not something teams are able to adjust to. If a starter, Bagley is a walking double
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Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
