At least Zaza Pachulia still has his starting position.

The addition of David Lee has been most impactful for Dwight Powell, who has seen his once-considerable playing time evaporate completely.

"Since David Lee has come, Parsons has been a backup four pretty much full time," Carlisle said. "We just don't have the minutes. That's not to say he couldn't re-enter the picture. I've told him he's got to stay ready. It's one of the challenges of being a professional. Right now, it's kind of how it is and he's just got to stay ready."

Powell has said he understands the situation. He remains one of the first Mavericks to the gym each day and one of the last to leave. That usually serves a player well when the opportunity to play arises, which it almost always does sooner or later.