Erick Dampier making things happen

It's a nonissue, and don't worry. As long as the Mavericks are winning, it won't become an issue.

Not when it comes to playing time split between Erick Dampier and Drew Gooden.

But there's a bigger picture that needs to be examined. The more games Dampier continues to pile up like Tuesday's against Houston, the tougher it's going to be to sit him. 

That said, there's no way the franchise allows Dampier to get to the minutes-threshold incentive that would trigger the final year of his seven-year contract at a guarantee of more than $13 million. 

Ain't gonna happen. Advertisement

But imagine the uncomfortable situation if Dampier keeps rolling up numbers like the 14 points, 20 rebounds and three blocks (with no missed shots) he had against the Rockets.

How can you not keep that kind of production on the court when you really need it?

While Dampier was on the court, which was for 33 minutes against the Rockets, the Mavericks were a plus-20.

Hard to argue with that – if it keeps happening consistently. And if it does, it's going to be important to continue to watch those minutes that accumulate.