GAME 78: DAL (48-30) vs. WAS (34-43)| 103-135 loss

[Mavs2021]

Feb/March:

Luka / Kleber    103.4 DefRtg    | 110.1 DefRtg  | -5.7
Luka / Brunson  110.4 DefRtg    | 117.3 DefRtg    | -6.9
Luka / DFS      113.1 DefRtg      | 119.9 DefRtg  | -6.8
Luka / Bullock    114.2 DefRtg    | 117.5 DefRtg    | -3.3
Luka / Powell    116.1 DefRtg    | 122.4 DefRtg  | -6.3
Luka / Green    94.9 DefRtg      | 118.5 DefRtg    | -23.6



The starters has sucked on defense. Worst DefRtg in the entire league in the last 15 games. Also the blowouts probably playing a role in those numbers. The defense has been better against better opponents imo, just going by the eye test. Its the same tendency as under Rick again: The Mavs are playing better vs. better teams. More effort. Better defense.

They need to get their act their act together. Saying it again, Luka is the most inconsistent player on defense on the entire roster. His defensive effort/performance ranges from literally being Trae Young to being a pretty solid defender.
Still hopeful for the playoffs, unless Luka putting on no shows on defense there too.



Luka lead the Mavs in +/- in Feb, and is near last in March.


Feb: +67 (1st on the team)
March: -21 (nearly last on the team)

As good as his offense been, as bad has been his defense.

Probably fatigued from the whole team having to play bigger and longer than they really are.