It’s all about Sasha in this game. He has the basic physical tools – strength, bulk, adequate size, decent athleticism – to do a passable job on LBJ, and he used to have a 3-point shot. His inability to contribute anything offensively or defend without fouling was disastrous against Melo and the Knicks. Not only did it hurt the starting line-up, but it forced Quis into duty as a full-time 3 (which in turn lead to Bradley racking up negative production at the back-up 2).
If he can give us a couple 3s early to establish floor spacing and decent, low-foul defense, I think he could give us 30 minutes and free up Daniels to lead the bench. If we get that, I think we have a shot. Without it, we’re toast.