2013-14 NBA Bench Power Rankings

Apr 15, 2013; Dallas, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies power forward Ed Davis (32) drives to the basket past Dallas Mavericks shooting guard Vince Carter (25) and center Brandan Wright (34) during the second half at the American Airlines Center. The Grizzlies defeated the Mavericks 103-97. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

13. Dallas Mavericks

Who is the most valuable Dallas bench player? Vince Carter or Brandan Wright? I guess that says all that needs be said. Apologies Mavericks fans, I know flippancy hurts and you’re just three seasons removed from winning it all with a roster most people (including me) considered first round fodder. Rick Carlisle is one of the best coaches in the game and if anyone can guide a bench that will rely on the consistency of Wayne Ellington it will be him. DeJuan Blair hopes to have a beastly renaissance and return to his early days with the Spurs. Speaking of revivals, homecoming king Devin Harris surely hopes to become the player the Mavericks regretted giving up on (his one absolutely sublime year in New Jersey is one he’s never replicated) but let’s face it: he isn’t that player anymore. At 30 years old and with a developing history of injuries, Harris just had the worst stats of his professional career. There’s no reason to believe he’s going to regain his former prowess. And Bernard James? Well he’s a war hero, so that’s cool, if that is your thing. The hope is to turn Jae Crowder into a “three and D” weapon, and as a four year dude from Marquette, he’s already not a bad defensive piece, but he’ll have to work on his three-pointers to reach the exalted ranks of your Shane Battiers or your Brandon Rushes. Stick to the corners Jae. That’s where you do your best work. Final verdict? Somewhat shock the world.