Grading the Mavericks: Defense Will Not Win Championships Without Scoring
The Mavericks have been avoiding offense in a league where it dominates. This past week, they went 1-2 and remain 14th in the Western Conference.
- They edged out a weakened Indiana team 107-105.
- They lost to Detroit 122-110 and to Houston 110-102.
- D’Angelo Russell led scoring during this period, averaging 18.3 points per game.
Injuries continue to plague the team:
- Daniel Gafford (ankle) made his season debut against the Pistons in Mexico City.
- Dante Exum (knee) and Kyrie Irving (knee) have yet to play this season.
- Dereck Lively has not returned since suffering a knee injury after the team’s third game.
- Anthony Davis injured his calf against the Pacers and remains sidelined.
The Mavericks are battling injuries for the second year running. Although not the most affected team, injuries significantly contribute to their struggles.
“Dallas clearly has not been able to establish any sort of rhythm or consistency on offense for more than a quarter at a time, and having guys in and out of the lineup is a factor in that.”
Using Cooper Flagg at point guard has also hurt their offensive production. Still, the team managed a solid effort in the last two games despite Anthony Davis’s absence.
Author’s summary: The Mavericks’ ongoing injury issues and reliance on defense over offense prevent them from finding consistency and winning more games this season.