Carlisle hopes Mavericks' depth can relieve workload for Kidd, Nowitzki

Carlisle hopes Mavericks' depth can relieve workload for Kidd, Nowitzki
Every year before training camp, the Mavericks say the same thing about Dirk Nowitzki -- that he will get more help and more rest.

And every season, Nowitzki remains the beast of burden for them, ridden hard for 82 games, and then asked to be even better in the playoffs.

Rick Carlisle is certain the notion of a more sensible workload for Nowitzki is more than lip service, as the Mavericks get ready for next week's training camp, which will be Nowitzki's 13th. Where that help comes from is yet to be determined. But it will happen, the coach firmly believes. It has to.

"One of our strengths is going to be our depth and our balance," he said. "That's got to manifest itself in spreading our scoring out, getting one or two more guys in double figures and getting Dirk from 26 to 22 or 24. Getting help for Dirk is a priority for sure."
"I think Roddy, J.J. and Jones, plus our young big guys, can all have a greater impact on our season this year," Carlisle said. "Dirk and Jason, those guys are as dependable as they come. But it's obvious we have to get their minutes down."

Forward Brian Cardinal, guard Dee Brown and guard Adam Haluska are among the players expected to be among training camp invitees. They will be working with non-guaranteed contracts.