NBA Finals: Storm Brews for MavsNation

by Tony Clayton on June 4, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

Like a dark cloud on the horizon, it’s upon us, a Spurs/Heat finals.  Not only did Mavs fans have to suffer through a depressing regular season, but now we’re forced to watch an NBA Finals matchup between the two most hated teams amongst the Mavs fan base.  But we can’t just sit idly by and watch the Finals without a rooting interest can we?  Personally, I cannot.  So who should we root for?  Why?  Are we blasphemers for choosing a particular team?  Is there a right choice?

Let me break it down for you.

I’ll be pulling for the Heat in this year’s Finals.  It hurts to type that, I promise. But as a Mavs fan, it’s a must. Here’s why……..

1) By the Heat winning the title, it will make the Mavs the only team to beat the ‘Big 3’ Miami circus in the 2011 Finals.  It will make that title run even more special than it already is.  Yes, I understand that it will be a beating to have to hear about LeBron James and the “Heatles” every five minutes in this ESPN generation. We will be the only team to take down the Heat before the new CBA dismantles them. Imagine the team that would’ve taken down the 90’s Bulls (hypothetically). Not even the Bulls were built with a checkbook like the Heat were/are. I’m selfish…I want Dallas to be the only team to take down the mighty, modern day NBA, cHeat.

2) Do we really want Spurs fans celebrating a fifth title? Not only will they be celebrating their championship over the Heat, but they’ll also gain more ammunition in any future Mavs/Spurs trash talk. Deservingly so, there will be absolutely ZERO rebuttal we can make for that. We’ll lose every bit of bragging rights we gained from 2011. Is that what you want, Mavs fans?

3) Texas Schmexas. I could care less that the Spurs are a “Texas team.”  It doesn’t make it OK to root for the Spurs because of their geography. If this logic is acceptable, then I can’t wait to see the entire Longhorn fans root for the Aggies this year.

4) Look at it this way. We’re NOT rooting for the Heat; we’re only rooting against the Spurs. Just keep telling yourself that. It will help you sleep at night. A Heat title will not put LeBron in the “Jordan” category if that’s what you’re concerned about. No matter how well they play, LeBron will always have the advantage of other superstars on his team. LeBron lost all of that “Jordan” credibility when he sold out and went to Miami.

It’s important that you all recognize something here. I dislike the Heat as much as you do. I hate that the Pacers laid an egg in Game 7 and put us in this position, I really do. I realize the evil of LeBron James and Dwayne Wade and all they represent to today’s NBA. But this is about basketball, not personalities. The way I see it, win or lose, LeBron will always be talked about and blown up in the media. He’ll always be relevant. If Miami wins then he’ll be the best “ever”, if they lose the talking point will be what LeBron didn’t do.  It’s a lose-lose.

So for the sake of basketball related points, and in the BEST interest of the Mavs; I’ve made my rooting interest decision.  I dislike both teams with a passion.  But my disdain for the Heat is .00000001% less than my disdain for the Spurs.  So by default, go NOT THE SPURS!

MFFL

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Sterling vs Cuban: Round 1 To The Mavs Boss Man

by Ryan Wilson on May 31, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

In the upcoming Chris Paul sweepstakes, the Los Angeles Clippers may have taken a huge blow in the fight. That fight isn’t even supposed to start until June 30th.

According to sources, Chris Paul is angry with the organization for making him out to be the lone reason for the firing of Vinny Del Negro last week.

“He’s angry right now and his anger is directed toward the Clippers organization,” the source said. “Chris is a man of principle and if he feels like you’ve gone against his principles, it will affect how he feels about you. He’s very agitated that his name has been put out there as the reason for Vinny’s firing. He had nothing to do with it.”

This is fantastic news for all Mavericks fans out there. What this means for the Mavericks pursuit of Paul is unknown at this time, but it certainly doesn’t hurt. The Dallas Mavericks organization has never really ran into anything of this nature, and that’s one of the categories that favor the Mavericks in this chase.

When things got shaky with Lamar Odom, Cuban and Mavs management could’ve really made things public and fired back. Instead they chose to take the high road and grant Odom his freedom. When the Delonte West fiasco came about, management once again handled it like a top notch organization would.

Chris Paul wants to go to an organization where he can win, but more importantly one that he can trust is moving in the right direction with him. The Los Angeles Clippers organization must have missed that memo. Look, it’s May 31st, and there is quite a bit of time before decisions will need to be made, so it’s all hear say at the moment. The Clippers should take a note from the Mavericks book. It’s better to keep things in house then to let your dirty laundry pile up for all of the public to see.

What Does This Mean For Mavs Summer Plans

It’s also been rumored that because of all these recent developments, Paul would be willing to sign a deal for less than the max, or even do a sign and trade for the right situation. How does this help the Mavs?

If the Mavericks can offer Dwight a max deal, they could then turn their attention to a sign and trade deal for CP3. There are still a lot of pieces that need to fall into place for all of this to happen. However, one thing is for sure. The Dallas Mavericks odds just got moved a little more in their favor. June 30th can’t come soon enough.

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Mavs Draft Watch: Dennis Schroeder

by Ryan Wilson on May 24, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

In the second segment of Mavs Draft Watch, we are focusing on a raw and promising point guard in Dennis Schroeder. While he has showed glimpses of his ability overseas, it was the Nike Hoops Summit where he made his presence known.

Schroeder helped lead the International team to a victory over Team U.S.A. and had 18 points and 6 assists in the process.

He’s received praise from German born Dirk Nowitzki, and been compared to Rajon Rondo as well. He is a risky gamble at #13, but one that could pay off huge dividends in the end.

Strengths: At 6’2, Schroeder has lightning fast quickness, capable of putting any defender on their back with an array of moves. He has a nice shooting touch, and can get to the rim whenever he wants. In the open floor, Schroeder is a nightmare to corral.

If being compared to Rajon Rondo is what Schroeder has to deal with, he’s got Rondo beat when it comes to shooting. They both can create separation with their ball handling and quickness, but Schroeder’s jumper is far more consistent.

To go along with Schroeder’s physical 6’2 frame, he also possesses a 6’7 wingspan, which he can use to his benefit on the defensive end. Combine that with his quickness, he can be the same type of nuisance Rondo is defense.

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Weaknesses: While Schroeder showed he can shoot consistently, it’s still unknown whether that will translate over here on the main land. He has a bit of a set shot, so mechanically, scouts worry about him showing that 3-point range in the NBA.

He will also need to bulk up. 168 lbs on a 6’2 frame isn’t going to get it done. While he does possess some physical power, adding a few pounds wouldn’t hurt.

Finally, we all must remember that he is only 19 years old, and hasn’t really played against the top talents in the world. He played against much older players who have been around the game for some time, but that doesn’t even come close to the players he will be roughing it up with in the NBA.

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How Schroeder fits in Dallas: As Damian mentioned yesterday, it’s no surprise to anyone that the Mavericks are looking at landing Chris Paul, filling a point guard slot that was a huge problem in Big D last year.

Even if the Mavericks land a big time point guard in Free Agency, Schroeder could have immediate impact off the bench. His type of play is very fitting for a Carlisle team. Schroeder’s ability to break down a defense could pay huge dividends when finding a guy like Dirk Nowitzki on the wing.

The Mavericks would love a player who can play both ends of the court and be aggressive in the process. While these are things that Schroeder could provide, it’s also important to note how raw he is. The Mavericks most recent international experiment went south when it came to Roddy Beaubois.

However, they did strike gold with one player. From Germany I believe as well.

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Mock Drafts w/ Dennis Schroeder to the Mavs at 13:

Jonathan Tjarks (SB Nation)

These types of players are the ones that baffle everyone, including the scouts. Schroeder has a lot of the characteristics that a true point guard needs to possess, but it remains to be seen how it will translate.

At last weeks combine, Schroeder was a limited participant in the workouts. It was rumored that he had already been promised a pick by a certain team in the draft, but he shot that rumor down and mentioned a toothache as the reason for his absence.

His name doesn’t garner the attention of a Trey Burke or Michael Carter-Williams, but if his promising game overseas translates successfully here in the U.S., the Mavericks could have a major steal in this draft.

Schroeder is just one of the international players getting the watchful eye from Mavericks management. Dario Saric is the second player on that short list, and Damian Jackson will be covering him on our next segment.

As always, Go Mavs!

Video courtesy of DraftExpress

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Unfamiliar Territory: Watching The Balls Drop

by Ryan Wilson on May 21, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

The 2013 NBA Draft lineup will be determined tonight in New York City, and for the first time since 2000, your  Dallas Mavericks will be participants. In an off-season full of potential, this marks the first step in that process.

Donnie Nelson and Keith Grant will be in New York to represent the Mavericks, and all of Mavs Nation have their fingers, toes, and anything else you can imagine crossed. After all, it’s really a game of luck.

“As much as we want to say it’s all science, there’s a big part of it that’s luck.’’ – Mark Cuban

 

 

 

 

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2013 NBA Combine, Draft: Huie’s Five Players to Watch

by Terence Huie on May 16, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

While the NBA Playoffs continue, the NBA Draft Combine starts today. I’ll say on thing – This is going to be a pretty legit draft class. It may be even better than last year’s class. There are so many guys that I see entering the combine and I am amazed at the names.

I would have to guess that most MFFLs don’t pay much attention to the upcoming draft, mostly due to the fact that the Mavericks have clinched a playoff berth for 12 consecutive years. My, how the tides have turned. Draft picks for Dallas are crucial in helping rebuild this team back to playoff form.

There’s a .6 percent chance that the Mavs will have the first overall pick in the draft. So realistically, Cuban will not get the first guy off the draft board.

So here are some guys I think that will be beneficial to the Mavs while I watch the Combine and leading up to this Draft. The fans might disagree with these guys, but it’s just my personal view. This group could change later as we get closer to the NBA Draft.

Seth Curry – Duke

 

Yes, Stephen Curry’s little brother from Duke. Of course if you are the son of Dell Curry, you are born with the gift to shoot the lights out of the gym. Seth does just that. The Mavs need a PG with Darren Collison possibly on his way out. Mike James isn’t getting any younger, so he is unable to play big minutes. Seth isn’t known as a floor general seeing that his assist totals were so low during his career at Duke. But he is a physical defender and great for snatching rebounds. Who wouldn’t want a guard who can grab the boards? Seth averaged 17.5 points per game and shot 43% from behind the arc in his senior season. He could bring the shooting consistency that O.J. Mayo lacked during the season. Seth Curry would help bring some life to the offensive side for the Mavs.

 

Michael Carter-Williams – Syracuse

 

“MCW” is what the world of college hoops calls him. Michael Carter-Williams had a breakout year this season compared to his freshman season. This guy is only a sophomore and averaged 11.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.3 assists during his second year. He isn’t a great long-range shooter, but has an excellent midrange game and is quick when driving to the basket. ‘Cuse is known for running the 2-3 zone thanks to Jim Boehim, which allowed MCW to average 2.8 steals a game. That defensive presence could be beneficial since the Mavs were the fourth-worst in the league for most opponent points allowed this season (averaged about 101.7 points). MCW is also 6’6”, so he could play the 2-guard and maybe forward position. So he could be great when needing to matchup with guys like Kobe, Iggy, or James Harden, etc.

 

Shabazz Muhammad – UCLA

 

Shabazz will most likely be drafted before the Mavs are on the clock for their First Round pick. If for some reason Muhammad is still available, this is one guy Mark Cuban should highly consider. Shabazz is very athletic on the offensive side and can run the floor resulting in easy transition baskets. Shabazz is quick coming off screens, plus his spot-up mid-range jumpers are almost automatic. He brings that explosiveness that most NBA teams need. Muhammed is not that great behind the arc, but he isn’t afraid to take a 3-pointer if he’s wide open.

 

Mason Plumlee – Duke

 

I watched this guy play all four years at Duke and his development during his college career is probably one of the best of all the prospects in the draft. Plumlee is a “NBA-ready” center being that he is 6’11”. I always tell the Twitter world that Mason Plumlee will be one of the best big men in the draft, usually resulting in me getting laughed at each and every time. He averaged 17 points and 10 rebounds his senior season. Plumlee is very physical. He has a ridiculous vertical for a guy at his height. He could easily be good in transition offense with his ability to play above the rim. Plumlee is strong in the paint when it comes to boxing out and grabbing the boards. He could be vital in the Mavs pick and roll game because he has good hands and mobility. People disagree that Mason is soft in the paint. I disagree. He has a great post game, having the ability with the hook shot, which makes him tough to guard. One area he could improve on is his defense in the post, but with his wingspan of 6’10”, that should make up for the lack of post defense. A center is what the Mavs need, and Mason Plumlee can help fill that void.

 

Ryan Kelly – Duke

 

I picked Ryan Kelly to get drafted hopefully in the 2^nd round to the Mavs. I’m a huge Duke fan, so like Plumlee, I watched Ryan Kelly progress in his career at Duke. I call him “Baby Dirk”, which Mavs fans call me crazy. However, if you watch him, he is a “poor man’s Dirk Nowtizki”. His game is so similar to Dirk’s. No, he doesn’t shoot the trademark fade-away step back jumper like Dirk, but he can shoot. He’s skinny and 6’11”, just like Dirk coming into the draft. Kelly shot above 40% from the 3-point line in his junior and senior season. For a big man, that’s pretty impressive. His defense is lacking, because he lacks athleticism. If he’s on the floor, however, he can help a Mavs offense that was stagnant at times this past year.

 

This “To-Watch” list could change after the combine and when experts start posting Mock Drafts, but I think one of these guys could help the Mavs get back to being a contender in the NBA.

 

Go Mavs!

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TC Report: Want A Career Night? Step Right Up!

by Tony Clayton on April 3, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

Welp.

There you have it folks. Season on the ropes and we were thrown over like The Honky Tonk Man in the 1989 Royal Rumble (Wrestling reference).  Lying on the mat; done….. finished.  Sure, it was Shaq night and naturally, we gave up a triple double to Kobe.  But what was most bothersome, is that we surrendered a career night to Earl freaking Clark.  Earl Clark.  Just for reference, in the previous game vs. Dallas back in February, Clark scored 1 point in 4 minutes of action.

The year is 2010.  During that season the Mavs surrendered 52 points to Andre Miller and four days later let Monta Ellis score 46.  Both career highs.  Shortly after, Dirk had this gem of a quote that still resonates to this day.

“That’s what we do.  We give guys contract extensions”

It’s Round 1 of the 2010 Western Conference Playoffs and the Spurs are up 2-1 on the Mavs in the series.  Mavs were the #2 seed and the Spurs were the #7.  In a pivotal game 4, Mavs surrender a career night of 29 points, 5 3-pointers made and 1 block.  The lucky player that night was George Hill.  Causal Mavs fans have no idea who the guy is.  They still don’t.  But I do.  From this point on, this phenomenon of our Mavs giving up career nights was something that intrigued me.  Of course, the Mavs won the title the next season.  But this doesn’t change the fact that star players, irrelevant players and younger players like to go off at our expense, on a regular basis.  Even if it’s not necessarily the best scoring night of a player’s career, it often seems that players love to play against the Mavericks.  Call it bad defense if you want.  But being the die hard fan that I am, I call it more bad luck.

I tried asking a source close to the Mavericks for assistance while retrieving details on the amount of career nights the Mavs have given up over the past few years.  But apparently he was too busy to help us with this endeavor.  So I looked at this season’s box scores (to date) to find examples.  Take note; all of this was done over my lunch break at my “big boy job”.

Keep in mind that these following examples are based purely on amount of points scored (Except for Earl Clark stats).  It doesn’t take into account the nights where the Mavs surrendered a career high in rebounds/steals/assists for an individual player.

These are also career games as of the night the stats were recorded.  Some of these players may have scored a higher amount of points versus an opponent after they matched up with the Mavs.  I didn’t do the research to determine that.  But I doubt that any of these players had better nights than what’s reflected below.

So let the fun begin.

1.  November 10, 2012.  Michael Kidd-Gilchrist scores 25 points and grabs 12 rebounds as the Bobcats beat the Mavs for the first time, EVER.  Yes, I understand that MKG is a Rookie player so his “career” is virtually non existent.  But that actually makes it worse that we let him score so easily on us.

2.  December 23, 2012. Danny Green scores 25 points, career-high.  He went 7-8 from the 3 point line as the Spurs rout the Mavs 129-91 in Dirks season debut.

3.  December 28, 2012.  Danilo Gallinari of the Nuggets scores a career high 39 points in a 106-85 win over the Mavericks.  Making 7-11 from the 3 point line.

4.  January 18, 2013.  Kevin Durant drops a career high 52 in a slug fest that the Mavs lost 117-114 in overtime.  One of many overtime losses for our Mavs this year.

5.  February 20, 2013.  Maurice Harkless scores a (at the time) career high 20 points as the Mavs beat the Magic in the first game back after all star break.  Harkless has since scored 28 points in a game.  4/2/13 vs. Houston.

6.  March 4, 2013.  The Chandler Parsons game.  Parsons decides to go unconscious and makes 12 of 13 shots from the field and ending the night with 32 points.  Rockets blow out the Mavs 136-103.  Barf.

7.  March 8, 2013.  Khris Middleton, rookie, scores a personal best 14 points as the Mavs almost blow a significant lead at the Palace.

8.  March 20. 2013.  This isn’t a career high but it was one point shy.  Brooke Lopez drops 38 points in a crucial loss to the Nets.  Career high for Lopez is 39 pts versus Detroit in 2011.

9.  April 2, 2013.  Earl Clark scores 17, grabs 12 rebounds, and blocks 5 shots as the Lakers end the Mavs season (pretty much).  Points were not a career high but 5 blocks were.  Clark scored a season high 22 vs. SA in January.

10. To Be Determined. I’m saving this spot for some other player that’s surely to go off with 8 games remaining of the schedule.

Honorable Mention:  Here is a good spot to recognize that ridiculous dagger 3 pointer that Lamarcus Aldridge made in our loss on January 29, 2013.  This was his first and only 3 pointer of the season.   You remember that game?  This is the game where the NBA later apologized for the missed foul call that would’ve sent Brandan Wright to the free throw line.  Looking back, that’s now a big loss on the Mavs record.

Our Maverick hearts have been broken many times over the years.  Obviously mended in the magical run of 2011, but then broken again the following seasons.  This year’s team has been awful in a lot of categories; Rebounding, Point Guard play, paint scoring, and getting to the free throw line.  I’m man enough to admit that this team is average.  But with such small room for error, it’s disappointing to see shots fall for opponents when the odds are that they shouldn’t.  I don’t have the stats in front of me and I don’t have the time to look.  But how many buzzer beaters as the shot clock or a quarter expires have we seen against the Mavs in the last 5 years?  Too many.  How many ridiculous shots have players made after the Mavs played 23.5 seconds of great defense?  Too many.  How many times this season have we seen a lesser player make long range jumpers with hands in their face as players like Dirk or Brand miss wide open jumpers on the other end?  Too many.  It’s a weird deal.

I’m looking forward to an offseason filled with hope.  I’m expecting for Cuban and company to take this years draft more seriously than ever before.  I’m also expecting some major roster shake ups as well.  Mavs will be back.

MFFL.     

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In The Face Of Adversity, Nowitzki Impresses Yet Again

by Ryan Wilson on March 31, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

You’d have to see it to believe it. In a game the Mavericks desperately needed, the one player they have leaned on for years, delivered once again.

With the Mavericks trailing 97-85 with only 4: 07 remaining, Dirk Nowitzki put the entire team and season on his back, beard and all. Those fans who left thinking the Mavericks chances were over missed out on all the heroics, and those who stayed were treated to yet another legendary performance from Nowitzki.

In those 4 minutes, the Mavericks outscored Chicago 15-1, with Nowitzki notching the last 8 of them, the final 3-pointer being the final blow.

“It’s kind of like the story of our season, honestly,” said Nowitzki, who was 14-of-17 from the floor and 5-of-6 from 3-point range in the game, 6-of-7 and 3-of-4 in the fourth. “Every time people write us out or say we’re done, for some reason, we find a way to hang around.

I couldn’t have put it better myself. This team just plays with so much heart. Regardless of if they land that final playoff spot, I can sit here and thoroughly enjoy being a fan of a team and organization like this.

For all of those who have said Nowitzki’s decline has already begun, take notice. Yeah, he’s another year older, but he continues to show that when you have the heart and desire like he does, you can throw all that other stuff aside.

“Whatever they say we can’t do as a team or he can’t do as a player, he finds a way,” Elton Brand said. “He works at it and finds a way to win. That’s the bottom line.”

For those new Mavs who haven’t been accustomed to the long legacy that is Dirk Nowitzki, they are starting to take notice.

“He hit some crazy shots, man, and just did what he does,” O.J. Mayo said. “He pulled us through. He’s a cold boy; got ice in his veins.”

When Dirk’s career is over, we will look at performances like these. He’s an MVP, a Finals MVP, an NBA Champion, 11 time All-Star, and has been the face of a first class organization since he came into the league.

I advise anyone who thinks the Mavericks team is done to take caution. They have one of the all time clutch players in the game. A player that continues to impress, even with all of those analysts who seem to think he is on that proverbial decline.

So, for those who may have turned off that game, and forgot that the “Tall Baller From The G” was still on the court, here is the video that will put it all into perspective.

On Tap:

Los Angeles Lakers (April 2nd) - The razors will once again be out in full force, while the Mavericks look to take one more step towards that 8th and final playoff spot.

Credits: Tim MacMahonVideo Credits: Max Frishberg

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Put Those Clippers On Hold For Now

by Ryan Wilson on March 29, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

Last night, the Dallas Mavericks attempted what they hadn’t tried since December 8th in Houston: Reach .500 again. The Mavericks made an agreement many weeks ago that they would grow beards and not shave until they reached .500 once more.

So, when the Indiana Pacers came into town Thursday night, the Mavericks were already planning accordingly. News began to spread that the barber of O.J. Mayo was given tickets to the game, so that they could finally remove those grangy beards. The Indiana Pacers took notice.

“We wanted to shut that s— down.” – Indiana Pacers Center Roy Hibbert

That’s exactly what you did Roy. Congrats!

The Mavericks were outplayed in every facet of the game last night. They flirted around in the beginning of the game, and even had a lead in the final minutes of the 1st half, before heading to the locker room tied at 41 a piece.

Look, the Pacers are a physical team that plays very good team defense. These kind of teams make games difficult for the Mavericks.

“I think a team like that blatantly brings out our weaknesses and shows our weaknesses,” said Nowitzki following the loss.

Well that’s great! They better rebound quick, because the Bulls are right around the corner, and they play the same physical game the Pacers do.

2 nights after the Mavericks dominated the Clippers in the paint, they took a step backwards. The Pacers had a 50-34 edge in the painted area, as well as a 55-34 advantage on the glass.

On a night where the Los Angeles Lakers fell to Milwaukee, the Mavericks couldn’t take advantage, and still sit 1 1/2 games back from the final playoff spot. If the Mavericks can rebound against Chicago on Saturday night, those clippers could be pulled back out for a huge game in Los Angeles, with more than just the beards on the line.

On Tap:

Chicago Bulls(39-31) – The Mavericks fell to the Bulls in Chicago back in November, 101-78. This time around, the Mavs will have the Big German available.

Lets Go Mavs!

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Mavericks Inch Closer To Razors & Final Playoff Spot

by Ryan Wilson on March 27, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

“It’s not the cards your dealt, but it’s how you play the game”

 

Amen. The Dallas Mavericks are proving this theory true. Down a game and a half back from the Los Angeles Lakers and the final spot in the playoffs, the Mavericks showed that the team chemistry is really coming together, and that they won’t go down without a fight.

In the Mavericks’ 109-102 win over the Los Angeles Clippers, the Mavericks now find themselves one game back and one win away from shaving those beards.

“We’re fighters,” Mayo said. “We’re going to keep coming. We’re going to keep coming until I guess they say the fat lady sings. We’re going to keep coming, keep trying to get better, keep trying to win ballgames and give ourselves a shot.”

You got that right. The Mavericks have confidence, and anyone can tell you that when that happens they are always going to think they have a chance. It’s the way this franchise operates.

“Our work is not done. … The motivation is clear. This has been a winning franchise for a long time.” – Rick Carlisle

 

The Mavs had their backs against the walls multiple times last night, and just kept coming back for more. Tied up at 95 a piece with 25 seconds remaining, Chris Paul drove on Marion and got the shot off the glass to go, all but assuring the Mavericks another devastating loss in yet another crucial game.

That was the Mavericks before. Not now. With 5 seconds left on the clock, Mayo tip toed his way on the baseline and got the lay in to fall, eventually pushing this game to overtime. In the extra period, it was vintage Dirk Nowitzki. He went 2-3 from the field and 4-4 from the free throw line, as the Mavericks went on to prevail 109-102.

Some things that stood out to me in this one was the Mavericks scoring inside. The Mavs outscored the Clippers 48-32 in the paint. I ask you all to read that one more time. The Mavs, who aren’t known for their inside presence, seemed to get to the rim time and time again.

Dirk Nowitzki finally started shooting the ball. Look, I’m all for getting everyone else involved, but he has to get some touches. Nowitzki shot 21 times, missing only 9 of them, en route to 33 points on the night. Analysts continue to stay that Dirk is on his decline, but his stats are misleading. A night like last night goes to show the contrary to what the analysts are spitting out. This is Dirk’s team, and he is still capable of putting them on his backs some more.

The road to the final playoff spot is still very bumpy. The Mavericks will need to keep the momentum going along with the new found team chemistry in order to have a shot. Rick said this is a winning franchise first and foremost. Tuesday night, the Mavericks took one more step towards proving it.

What’s On Tap:

@ Pacers (3/27) - The Mavs will be looking for some revenge in this one. Not only are the razors within their grasp, but the Mavs got stomped in Indiana earlier this year, 103-83.

 

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Mavs Fall In Yet Another Heart Breaker

by Terence Huie on March 15, 2013 in Mavs 09 comments

A Texas Showdown occurred Thursday night as the Mavs walked into San Antonio to take on the Western Conference top-seeded Spurs. Dallas is still on the outside looking in the playoff hunt for the 8^th seed.

The Spurs are still playing without their star point guard Tony Parker, who suffered a sprained left ankle on March 1^st against the Kings. Also, Shawn Marion is still out with a bruised left calf and inactive for his now fourth game.

The Spurs began the first quarter with a 6-2 run. Spurs’ Tim Duncan dominated the boards recording 8 rebounds in the quarter. The Mavs were 8-for-20 from the field (40%), while the Spurs were 9-for-25.

Dallas got a little momentum tying the game 35-35 midway through the second quarter, coming from 11 points by Dirk Nowtizki and Mike James. After a Greg Popovich timeout, the Spurs responded with a 9-2 run giving them a 9 point lead going into half time.

The Spurs led the game at halftime 50-41. Dirk Nowtizki was Dallas’ leading scorer with 9 points. Spurs’ Kawhi Leonard and Tim Duncan both scored 9 points. Both teams shot about 40% from the field. Big stat from the half: The Spurs outrebounded Dallas 31 to 14, thanks to Tim Duncan’s 11 first half rebounds.

Dallas came out of halftime with a 14-4 run thanks to three Spurs’ turnovers. The Mavs went 1-for-5 on their next 6 offensive possessions, giving the Spurs a 9 point lead. Tim Duncan was the leading scorer with 8 points along with 6 rebounds.

The Mavs playoff chances were at stake as they were not looking to throw in the towel so easily in the fourth quarter. Dallas went on a 9-1 run to slim the Spurs’ lead from six to just two points with nine minutes left. Dirk drains a huge three point jumper to give the Mavs a one point lead at 78-77. 5 points from Gary Neal started a 7-0 run by the Spurs. The Spurs went 0-for-3 their next four possessions, followed by a huge three-pointer in the corner by Vince Carter. The Mavs’ 5-0 run cut their deficit to one point with 40 seconds left. With 5 seconds left, the Mavs drew up a play for Vince Carter to hit final shot, but he misses the three point jumper.

The Spurs win 92-91, giving them their 50^th win of the regular season and clinching a spot in the playoffs. The Mavs could not add a win to their 4-game winning streak falling to a 30-34 regular season record.

Five Mavs players were in double figures for the game. Vince Carter, Brandan Wright, O.J. Mayo, and Mike James all had 10 points. Dirk recorded a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds. The Mavs shot 37 of 83 from the field.

Tim Duncan showed why he is one of the top ten NBA power forwards of time: 28 points and 19 rebounds, shooting 12 of 20 from the field. There was no need to worry about Tony Parker’s injury as Spurs’ backup point guard Gary Neal had 17 points to finish the game.

Looking ahead the Mavs take on the Cavaliers at home Friday night. Also, the Mavs take on the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday night.

GO MAVS!

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