Well, we can start with the addition of point guard Mo Williams, who arrived from Milwaukee to provide accurate, LeBron-pressure-relieving three-point shooting and additional dribble penetration to break down defenses. His off-the-dribble ability far exceeds that of Daniel Gibson and gives Brown two players who can drive and kick in a spread-the-floor set.

Mo's presence also allows Delonte West to spend considerable time at shooting guard, where his ballhandling has helped Cleveland eliminate two turnovers from last season's per-game average.

With Williams in the lineup, LeBron is scoring less (26.7 from 30), still tragic from three-point range and contributing one less assist and rebound per game (credit the minutes). He's on a career-best pace in free-throw and overall field-goal accuracy, enabling that player-efficiency rating to remain in the top three, depending on which system you check.

Another variable to boost the Cavs' offensive rating was realized when Brown gave in to popular demand and stationed James on the block more frequently. While the low-post work hasn't increased LeBron's free-throw visits, it has provoked double teams that have resulted in more open shots for his teammates.

The open shots, fewer turnovers and defensive intensity have conspired to give the Cavs — who are playing at the same pace as last season — a per-game differential of 13.6 points (up from minus-3 last season).

These point spreads have given Jackson and Brown the opportunity to rest Kobe and LeBron as their teams attempt to muster a run at the Boston Celtics.

When June rolls around, fresh faces may seem less important than fresh legs ... especially if your superstar prefers the title of NBA Finals MVP.