Shawn Bradley's path to NBA dominance has been slow to develop. But don't worry; it's still coming.

The Mavericks still are working out the kinks in their defensive schemes and experimenting with ways to make the 7-6 shot-blocking specialist more of a factor with new rules that make variations of zone defenses legal.

"We're still figuring out how it's most beneficial to us," Bradley said. "Right now it's a work in progress."

Mavericks coach Don Nelson made adjustments after the preseason that helped Bradley have more of an impact against Detroit in the season opener, but the transformation is not yet complete.

The defensive three-second rule, which basically calls for Bradley to be within arm's length of an offensive player when he's in the paint, has forced the shot-blocker to cover more ground when attempting to lurk in the middle. Bradley was expected to be more of a defensive presence with the new rules but has found the adjustment difficult.

"Last year's rules actually let you do a lot more," Bradley said. "It just takes a little more attention. This defense is going to work for us. It's just a matter of getting it worked out."