Dale Ellis Fights for More Playing Time on Maverick Frontline

Twice daily at SMU’s Moody Coliseum, Mavericks forward Dale Ellis works to re-establish his status of 1983, when he was the ninth player drafted into the NBA and rated the top forward of his class by superscout Marty Blake.

At times, the evidence provided by Ellis’ practice performances has been overwhelming. Such was the case last week when Ellis’ shooting was nearly perfect and his defense bewildering to some of the newcomers.

“I think today was my best practice,” Ellis said. “I had a slow start. I don’t know why, but I’m coming around now. I’m shooting the ball well. I’m looking forward to every practice.”

Ellis, twice Southeastern Conference Player of the Year during his four seasons at Tennessee, established a club record by sinking 6 of 8 three-point field goals during his 27-point performance against Portland on Jan. 13 last season. Two weeks later, he lost his place in the regular rotation when Sam Perkins shifted to forward, and Wallace Bryant became the starting center.

After Feb. 3, Ellis averaged 11 minutes during the next 20 games. He appeared in 24 of the final 34 regular-season contests, then got a surprise start in the final playoff meeting at Portland.

“Playing time decreases in the latter part of the season,” Ellis said. “I think I proved myself in the early part of the season. I don’t think there’s any doubt around the league that I’m a player. I’m just going to have to take my time and let things work out for me.”

Mavericks coach Dick Motta, who has enough thoroughbreds at small forward to fill the starting gate at the Kentucky Derby, has defined this season as “critical” in Ellis’ career.

“Critical as far as what?” Ellis asked, when Motta’s statement was repeated. “Critical as far as playing time. I just have to go out and play as hard as I can in practice and hope it earns me some playing time.

“As far as this being a critical year for me to establish myself as a player in this league, I think I’ve done that. Everything else depends on what kind of playing time I get.”

It was suggested last year that Ellis be converted into a shooting guard, and he practiced there during the spring. But the tryout never advanced beyond the experimental stage.

“We had Tom Sluby (waived after the playoffs), but he was hurt,” Ellis remembered. “There was no one else available to play the position. I don’t think it was because he (Motta) really wanted to try me out at guard.”

Realizing his depth at forward, Motta also introduced a 1-4 offense late in the season. He talked last week about using the tactic during training camp.

“I guess that remains to be seen,” Ellis said. “I don’t anticipate a 1-4, but if it happens, I’m all for it. I’m for anything that’s going to give me more playing time.”

One theory from within the Mavericks organization is that the club should use players like Ellis to develop Lakers-style depth. Motta apparently has mixed feelings about the concept.