A Few Thoughts on Mavs 112, Pacers 103

[mavsluvr]

Short-Handed Mavs Take Pacers Down

The Mavericks, minus three important players, took their road game to Indiana and won a clutch game! Woo-hoo!

Game Story

Indiana's top scorer, TJ Warren, was out due to being in a concussion protocol. Luka and Powell remained out for the Mavs, and Seth took his place on the injured list with knee tightness. Barea went down with a sprained ankle in the first half. The starting lineup consisted of Brunson/THJ/DFS/KP/Maxi.

This was a very competitive game, with the score differential within single digits throughout. The Mavs went into the half with a five-point deficit, but gained a lead at the 9:20 mark of the third quarter and never surrendered it. The difference got down to five points four times in the last five minutes, thus qualifying those minutes as "clutch," but the visitors kept their composure and held on for the win.

Analytics

The Mavs put up 10 fewer shot attempts than the Pacers, but had 11 more 3PTAs. They also had 12 more FTAs than their opponent. At the end of the day, Dallas were +33 on points from threes (!), +14 on made free throws, and -36 on points from twos. The Mavericks hit 18 threes on 40% long-range shooting, and went 22-23 from the line. They also had 12 offensive rebounds, and a 51-40 advantage on the boards. The Pacers stayed in the game with 56 points in the paint, 11 points off Mavs turnovers, and 14 fast-break points. 

Players

Porzingis (36 min) was brilliant, scoring a season-high 38 points, and grabbing 12 rebounds. He accomplished this feat on 10-20 shooting, with 6 threes. He was impressive as a first option, playing aggressively, dunking, hitting threes, driving, cutting, defending, the works. KP criticized himself after the game, saying that Sabonis scored on him too many times, and he was half a step late on his missed blocks. His coach didn't agree with that, praising KP's "terrific" defense, and further commending his shotmaking, varied offense, rolls, off-ball action, and creation of opportunities for his teammates. This was the Porzingis the Mavs hoped they were signing. Porzee said he has gradually gotten his form back this season with consistent work, and he thanked the coaches, especially Brad Shamgod.

 

Hardaway (33 min) stepped up in the absence of some of his fellow guards, and put up 25 points, including 4 threes, on 9-17 shooting. He also had 5 assists. With Brunson and Wright the only ball handlers out there in the second half, the team gave some of that responsibility to Tim, and he wore the mantle admirably.  He was aggressive, played with infectious energy, and was just a danged barrel of fun to watch. Didn't necessarily expect to see him running the pick and roll when the season started, but it worked out fine.

 

DFS (32 min) continued to showcase his versatility, recording 15 points, including three threes, on 4-8 shooting. He filled out the box score with 11 rebounds (4 offensive), 4 assists, and a block. This young man is turning into a top tier 3-and-D guy, usually defending the opponent's toughest wing, and becoming an offensive weapon from long range. The FSSW crew flashed a stat showing that he has shot a combined 60% on threes for the last three games. If he can sustain this, becoming a two-way player would be huge for him. 

Ironically, a couple of Doe-Doe's mistakes illustrated some of his strengths. He missed a shot at the basket and struggled with a crowd to successfully grab the offensive board. He continued to fight for the put back and waited too long to release the ball, as three Pacers swarmed him. He ended up throwing a desperation pass to the perimeter, and the pass was stolen by a Pacer for free throws at the other end. Although he will probably learn from that mistake, it showed just how hard he fights for offensive boards and put backs. He also was called for a technical for yelling "And-one!" at the ref. Pretty weak sauce, if you ask me. Yes, he knew better, but the fans could see his passion and energy on display.

   

Brunson (30 min) didn't have an outstanding overall game, with 9 points and 3 assists, to go with 4 turnovers. However, he made some very good plays in the stretch, including a fantastic kick-out to DFS in the corner, along with a dagger bucket. The starting lineup looked very good in this match.

  

WCS (6 min). The new big man did not get much run in this contest. The MMB podcast speculated that the decision was matchup-driven, as Willie couldn't guard Myles Turner or Sabonis, and the Pacers didn't play a big off the bench.

 

Pacers. Sabonis was excellent, with a 26-12-9 line, although Maxi made life tough for him. The rest of the team was pretty well contained. Oladipo came off the bench, and was 4-17 from the field.

Remarks

The issue of why the team and/or some players look better without Luka was presented. Carlisle ventured that the team plays a different style without Doncic on the floor. They have more of a free-flowing offensive system, call fewer plays, and the team has pretty well figured out how to play without Luka. He says it doesn't matter which player (between Luka and KP) gets more points during a game; rather, it's all about winning. Coach emphasized that, regardless of the win without their superstar, they need Luka back. No argument here, but I think it is an issue worth pondering, in terms of getting the best out of KP and THJ when Luka is on the court. 

Rick also gave an injury/load management report. Luka is coming along, although he will not be back before his initial projected return date. Rick doesn't think Seth's injury is serious, but he didn't have an updated assessment and indicated that Curry will not be rushed back. He hasn't met up with Barea yet, but his impression is that the ankle injury is not serious. Carlisle thought that the rest game for KP against Atlanta was a helpful factor contributing to his performance here, and said they will not hesitate to rest others who come to a point where they need a game off.

 

This was an enjoyable game to watch, even though several significant players were out between both sides. It was a KP masterpiece, and Tim and Dorian also showed out with top-form performances. The team as a whole operated like a well-oiled machine on both ends. Asked why the squad doesn't play like this at home, KP professed to be stumped, but speculated that it might be that they are trying too hard to impress for the home fans, and individuals end up trying to do too much, instead of just sticking to the game plan. Whatever the reason, they flaunted their best road focus and urgency in this one. Way to go!

Next. Memphis will be the Mavs' next opponent. Luka and Powell will remain out, and the status of Seth and Barea is TBD.

 

Go Mavs!

---

Sorry about the formatting, guys. I've tried to fix it every way from Sunday, but I think at this point, it is what is is.

[mavsluvr]

Mavs media posted an interesting stat. KP had his second consecutive game with 35+ points and 10+ rebounds. Before that, he has had only one such game out of 222.

When you watch this performance, he looks nothing like the player who started the season. Amazing turnaround.

[omahen]

When you watch this performance, he looks nothing like the player who started the season. Amazing turnaround.

As I wrote in the other thread, it might be psychological - he is more confident as an alpha and his shots just fall. Because let's be honest, he is not getting worse looks with Luka, he just wasn't connecting them and had really low efficiency. 

Even better option would be, that he "break the ice" against the Houston and just got relaxed. Anyway, we will soon see.

[Thukydides]

What a beautiful win that was! Felt like a bonus and should boost the confidence going into a considerably easier stretch now.

[omahen]

What a beautiful win that was! Felt like a bonus and should boost the confidence going into a considerably easier stretch now.

Easier on paper but tons of trap games. Memphis being first one. Washington will be well rested and are one instant offense. Chicago on the second leg of a back to back - tough defensive team with bad offense.

[mtrot]

Short-Handed Mavs Take Pacers Down

The Mavericks, minus three important players, took their road game to Indiana and won a clutch game! Woo-hoo!

Game Story

Indiana's top scorer, TJ Warren, was out due to being in a concussion protocol. Luka and Powell remained out for the Mavs, and Seth took his place on the injured list with knee tightness. Barea went down with a sprained ankle in the first half. The starting lineup consisted of Brunson/THJ/DFS/KP/Maxi.

This was a very competitive game, with the score differential within single digits throughout. The Mavs went into the half with a five-point deficit, but gained a lead at the 9:20 mark of the third quarter and never surrendered it. The difference got down to five points four times in the last five minutes, thus qualifying those minutes as "clutch," but the visitors kept their composure and held on for the win.

Analytics

The Mavs put up 10 fewer shot attempts than the Pacers, but had 11 more 3PTAs. They also had 12 more FTAs than their opponent. At the end of the day, Dallas were +33 on points from threes (!), +14 on made free throws, and -36 on points from twos. The Mavericks hit 18 threes on 40% long-range shooting, and went 22-23 from the line. They also had 12 offensive rebounds, and a 51-40 advantage on the boards. The Pacers stayed in the game with 56 points in the paint, 11 points off Mavs turnovers, and 14 fast-break points. 

Players

Porzingis (36 min) was brilliant, scoring a season-high 38 points, and grabbing 12 rebounds. He accomplished this feat on 10-20 shooting, with 6 threes. He was impressive as a first option, playing aggressively, dunking, hitting threes, driving, cutting, defending, the works. KP criticized himself after the game, saying that Sabonis scored on him too many times, and he was half a step late on his missed blocks. His coach didn't agree with that, praising KP's "terrific" defense, and further commending his shotmaking, varied offense, rolls, off-ball action, and creation of opportunities for his teammates. This was the Porzingis the Mavs hoped they were signing. Porzee said he has gradually gotten his form back this season with consistent work, and he thanked the coaches, especially Brad Shamgod.

 

Hardaway (33 min) stepped up in the absence of some of his fellow guards, and put up 25 points, including 4 threes, on 9-17 shooting. He also had 5 assists. With Brunson and Wright the only ball handlers out there in the second half, the team some of that responsibility to Tim, and he wore the mantle admirably.  He was aggressive, played with infectious energy, and was just a danged barrel of fun to watch. Didn't necessarily expect to see him running the pick and roll when the season started, but it worked out fine.

 

DFS (32 min) continued to showcase his versatility, recording 15 points, including three threes, on 4-8 shooting. He filled out the box score with 11 rebounds (4 offensive), 4 assists, and a block. This young man is turning into a top tier 3-and-D guy, usually defending the opponent's toughest wing, and becoming an offensive weapon from long range. The FSSW crew flashed a stat showing that he has shot a combined 60% on threes for the last three games. If he can sustain this, becoming a two-way player would be huge for him. 

Ironically, a couple of Doe-Doe's mistakes illustrated some of his strengths. He missed a shot at the basket and struggled with a crowd to successfully grab the offensive board. He continued to fight for the outback and waited too long to release the ball, as three Pacers swarmed him. He ended up throwing a desperation pass to the perimeter, and the pass was stolen by a Pacer for free throws at the other end. Although he will probably learn from that mistake, it showed just how hard he fights for offensive boards and put backs. He also was called for a technical for yelling "And-one!" at the ref. Pretty weak sauce, if you ask me. Yes, he knew better, but the fans could see his passion and energy on display.

   

Brunson (30 min) didn't have an outstanding overall game, with 9 points and 3 assists, to go with 4 turnovers. However, he made some very good plays in the stretch, including a fantastic kick-out to DFS in the corner, along with a dagger bucket. The starting lineup looked very good in this match.

  

WCS (6 min). The new big man did not get much run in this contest. The MMB podcast speculated that the decision was matchup-driven, as Willie couldn't guard Myles Turner or Sabonis, and the Pacers didn't play a big off the bench.

 

Pacers. Sabonis was excellent, with a 26-12-9 line, although Maxi made life tough for him. The rest of the team was pretty well contained. Oladipo came off the bench, and was 4-17 from the field.

Remarks

The issue of why the team and/or some players look better without Luka was presented. Carlisle ventured that the team plays a different style without Doncic on the floor. They have more of a free-flowing offensive system, call fewer plays, and the team has pretty well figured out how to play without Luka. He says it doesn't matter which player (between Luka and KP) gets more points during a game; rather, it's all about winning. Coach emphasized that, regardless of the win without their superstar, they need Luka back. No argument here, but I think it is an issue worth pondering, in terms of getting the best out of KP and THJ when Luka is on the court. 

Rick also gave an injury/load management report. Luka is coming along, although he will not be back before his initial projected return date. Rick doesn't think Seth's injury is serious, but he didn't have an updated assessment and indicated that Curry will not be rushed back. He hasn't met up with Barea yet, but his impression is that the ankle injury is not serious. Carlisle thought that the rest game for KP against Atlanta was a helpful factor contributing to his performance here, and said they will not hesitate to rest others who come to a point where they need a game off.

 

This was an enjoyable game to watch, even though several significant players were out between both sides. It was a KP masterpiece, and Tim and Dorian also showed out with top-form performances. The team as a whole operated like a well-oiled machine on both ends. Asked why the squad doesn't play like this at home, KP professed to be stumped, but speculated that it might be that they are trying too hard to impress for the home fans, and individuals end up trying to do too much, instead of just sticking to the game plan. Whatever the reason, they flaunted their best road focus and urgency in this one. Way to go!

Next. Memphis will be the Mavs' next opponent. Luka and Powell will remain out, and the status of Seth and Barea is TBD.

 

Go Mavs!

---

Sorry about the formatting, guys. I've tried to fix it every way from Sunday, but I think at this point, it is what is is.

In other words, the Mavs are more unpredictable.  IMO, it's a good thing that your opponent has little idea what's coming next.  It will be great if the Mavs can keep an element of this unpredictability when Luka returns.

[StepBackJay]

When you watch this performance, he looks nothing like the player who started the season. Amazing turnaround.

As I wrote in the other thread, it might be psychological - he is more confident as an alpha and his shots just fall. Because let's be honest, he is not getting worse looks with Luka, he just wasn't connecting them and had really low efficiency. 

Even better option would be, that he "break the ice" against the Houston and just got relaxed. Anyway, we will soon see.

I loved KP operating a lot in the paint this game. The refs rewarded him with a bunch of fouls. I hope this is something we can repeat in the future. I do wonder if KP and Luka's minutes might need to stagger some. Rick tried this early in the season but went away from it. I think when KP is out there he will get a lot of 3's but with Luka on the bench he can work the middle more.

[mavsluvr]

When you watch this performance, he looks nothing like the player who started the season. Amazing turnaround.

As I wrote in the other thread, it might be psychological - he is more confident as an alpha and his shots just fall. Because let's be honest, he is not getting worse looks with Luka, he just wasn't connecting them and had really low efficiency. 

Even better option would be, that he "break the ice" against the Houston and just got relaxed. Anyway, we will soon see.

Yes, there were some comments after the game about his feeling more comfortable as a first option, rather than deferring to Luka. Hopefully, these guys can learn to play together in a fashion that maximizes both of their considerable strengths.

[mavsluvr]

What a beautiful win that was! Felt like a bonus and should boost the confidence going into a considerably easier stretch now.

Indeed. Hope the Mavs can take advantage of this part of the schedule.

[mavsluvr]

What a beautiful win that was! Felt like a bonus and should boost the confidence going into a considerably easier stretch now.

Easier on paper but tons of trap games. Memphis being first one. Washington will be well rested and are one instant offense. Chicago on the second leg of a back to back - tough defensive team with bad offense.

Not sure the Mavs are good enough to have trap games. But I take your point.