The Dallas Mavericks could be down a player tonight as Delonte West is still suffering from a stomach bug that may cause him to sit out Game 1 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
West is listed as a game-time decision and if he is unable to go it will hurt the Mavericks on the defensive end of the court in their attempt to slow down the Thunders offense. West's primary defensive duties are to guard Russell Westbrook and also James Harden.
"We've got a Plan B," Carlisle said. "I'm not going to get into the details of it. We'll see where he's at game time. Other than that, we're ready to go."
So, it will be a surprise on what the Mavericks will do if West is out.
If the Mavericks are playing without West then Vince Carter would move into the starting lineup and share the defensive duties with Jason Kidd in guarding Westbrook and Harden.
However, Carter believes West will suit up and play Saturday night:
"He's fearless and edgy and I think that's what you need in the playoffs," Carter said of West. "In my opinion, I think he'll be on the floor. Knowing him, he'll be here. He's an asset to our team and he's proven it time in and time out."
For all the latest news and notes about the Mavericks playoff run, head over to Mavs Moneyball while Welcome To Loud City has everything you need to know about the Thunder.
Mavericks head coach Rick Carlisle mentions that they have a backup plan if West can't go:
So, it will be a surprise on what the Mavericks will do if West is out.
If the Mavericks are playing without West then Vince Carter would move into the starting lineup and share the defensive duties with Jason Kidd in guarding Westbrook and Harden.
However, Carter believes West will suit up and play Saturday night:
For all the latest news and notes about the Mavericks playoff run, head over to Mavs Moneyball while Welcome To Loud City has everything you need to know about the Thunder.