G Jason Kidd has been given free reign of the up-tempo offense that encourages him to push the pace at every opportunity. Kidd should also feel more comfortable in the half-court set than he did in Avery Johnson's system. Constant motion will allow Kidd to create off the dribble.

G Antoine Wright hasn't won the starting job yet, but Rick Carlisle is clearly sending signals that he likes the 6-7 shooting guard's versatility. Wright isn't a great perimeter shooter, but his quickness allows him to break down defenders off the dribble and Carlisle likes his defensive tenacity.

F Josh Howard's off-court antics didn't faze Rick Carlisle, who has consistently called Howard the team's most important player. Carlisle believes Howard's athleticism and ability to get to the rim makes him the perfect complement to Kidd in the transition game. Howard has said he plans to rely less on his step-back jumper while being more aggressive with drives to the basket.

F Dirk Nowitzki lifted Germany into the Olympics and was truly inspired to carry his country's flag, a far cry from his Australian Outback getaway of two summers ago. Nowitzki benefited greatly from Kidd's arrival last season and now 30, he talks about winning a championship in these final three years of his contract.

C Erick Dampier has spent his career as the stoic big man, quietly grabbing rebounds and blocking shots. He says he plans to reveal more emotion on the court to fuel his teammates. Tag-team partner, DeSagana Diop, is back so there's less pressure on Dampier to try to stay out of foul trouble, allowing him to defend more aggressively.

ANALYZING KEY RESERVES:

G Jason Terry could well be an instant-offense sixth-man. He'll play some point, but Carlisle wants to use him more at the two-guard and free him up to nail down three-pointers.

G/F Jerry Stackhouse struggled with injuries last season, but worked hard in the offseason to increase his conditioning and durability. If the up-tempo offense clicks and Stackhouse stays healthy, he could see plenty of lay-ups in addition to his coveted corner three-pointer.

G/F Devean George appeared headed to Boston or Cleveland, but owner Mark Cuban, recognizing that Carlisle wanted George, got a deal done. If healthy, he's another proven defender and team guy, and Carlisle can't have enough of those guys.

G Gerald Green is a uniquely talented athlete but at this point largely an unknown commodity. Carlisle would love to see him mature and be able to use his great length, quickness and leaping ability to fill the lane with Kidd leading the break.

C DeSagana Diop was brought back to clog the lane, block shots and rebound. If he does that he'll be a key trigger point of the fast-break. Not much of a scorer, the halfcourt motion offense should get him more touches from point-blank range.

MEDICAL WATCH: No significant injuries.