I know that Brunson was ill, and I'm sure that was a factor, but with that said, we saw a lot of 3 forward lineups, and some with 4, and Arch.
The 4 with Arch on the ball was the dreaded Ochefu and Reynolds combo attack. Not particularly effective, especially on the defensive end, and not particularly effective on the glass either, where those dividends (rebounds) were probably most hoped for.
The 3 forward lineup with Arch, Hart, KJ, Bridges, and Ochefu, (which can almost be called 4 forwards with Hart) and Booth or Brunson subbing in for Hart, was an effective unit. Considering Brunson's limited minutes due to illness, Arch spent a ton of time on the ball. The results speak for themselves. Not a knock on Brunson, but Arch still drives this team with a vision that Brunson still has yet to reach.
I think it's obvious that JW is going to play Bridges and KJ together more. It's working.
I believe we see a 3 man rotation of Arch/Brunson/Booth for the 80 guard minutes, and Hart/KJ/Bridges rotation for the 3 and 4 spots 80 minutes.
Ochefu and Reynolds at the 5
I don't see us going small as often as we did early (Arch/Booth/Brunson/Hart/KJ).
Ultimately, its about chemistry. Those lineups, with 2 guards, from my eye test, have been the most effective across the board. Especially when Arch is at the top beginning the offense.
Great start to the season.
Happy New Year to all!