Jahii's all good with bench role

Carson, who averages a team-leading 16.2 points per game, started on the bench for the first time in Saturday’s 82-77 home win over Sydney.

‘‘It doesn’t matter to me,’’ the former University of Arizona State star said.

‘‘I still feel I’m most effective when I’m put in a position to do what Coach [Gordie McLeod] lets me do, so it doesn’t matter if I start or come off the bench. I think he’s just trying to rotate us and find what guard is hot and what guard is better coming off the bench.’’

Gary Ervin and Rhys Martin got the nod to start in the backcourt against Sydney and combined for 28 points. They are likely to retain their spots in Friday’s duel with Melbourne at WIN Entertainment Centre.

Carson made 5/16 shots against the Kings and finished right on his average with 16 points. He also played a team-high 35 minutes.

‘‘All of us three have come off the bench and we’ve all been effective starting or coming off the bench, so it doesn’t matter between us three, as long as we’re making a difference and getting production out there we’re all fine,’’ he said.

‘‘With us three out there, we can really disrupt the opposing team’s offence and get out in transition and run. With Rhys and Gary picking up [defensively] a lot of the times, I’m able to get out more in transition. I’m able to pick my spots a bit more when I have two guys who can play on-ball and I can be off-ball.

‘‘It’s definitely a good look for us to go small sometimes, just to have a lineup change and have teams try to adjust to us.’’

Carson has been slowed by a back injury over the past few weeks, missing the round nine road loss to Perth and sitting out the odd practice session.

His back spasms are gradually easing and he is looking forward to taking on Melbourne.

‘‘It’s a lot better. I’ve still got a lot of stress sometimes and feel a lot of back spasms, but it’s nothing like it was in past weeks,’’ the 22-year-old said.

‘‘I’m still doing my rehab and just trying to get into the flow of things a bit more. I’m getting to almost 100 per cent.’’

The Hawks drew just over 2200 fans to their battle with arch rivals Sydney. Carson is hoping to see a bigger crowd on Friday.

‘‘With us winning the last two home games, it’s getting the fans involved and that gives us more energy, and they definitely help us get our energy,’’ he said.

‘‘If we can get these next three home games that would be very good for our confidence, and confidence is key.’’

Hawks forward Tim Coenraad missed Monday’s training session with a foot injury and is racing the clock to be fit for Friday’s clash.