The substitute pivot Wolves has not entered the floor for three games.
He had played only 110 seconds against the Rockets and, for personal reasons, missed both games after the All-Star Game. However, Gorgui Dieng has still not found the path of the prosecution as he remains on three « DNP » (Did Not Play – « Did not play ») rank.
« Often, when there are absentees, the players raise their level and we find positive in this new group », justifies the coach Ryan Saunders to « We liked what Anthony Tolliver brought us, how he dismissed the game In addition, Taj Gibson as a substitute pivot gave us a good inner presence. »
The story is known: when the cat is not there, the mice dance. Anthony Tolliver and Taj Gibson did shine in the five games where Gorgui Dieng was not there: 11.2 average points at 55% success at 3-point for the first, 13.6 points and 7.2 rebounds for the second.
But everything is a matter of dynamics, says the Wolves coach.
« It will not be so all games. But until further notice, it will be like that, because we feel that it is best for the team right now. »
If you count the game against Houston where he has hardly played, Wolves remain on three wins in six games without Gorgui Dieng. This is not Peru but as the Lakers and Kings skate and a qualification for the playoffs is even thinkable, Senegalese accepts the situation.
« It’s the professional world. People make decisions and have to live with. Must pass before the team itself is the most important. I have maybe not my luck now, but tomorrow I’ll maybe play thirty minutes. Who knows ? I have to stay ready and be the best teammate. «
