Mavericks Look to Rebound in Upcoming Home Stand
The Dallas Mavericks, holding a 19-15 record, are looking to capitalize on their upcoming seven-game home stand, starting with a matchup against the struggling Portland Trail Blazers. Despite a recent setback, the Mavericks are entering the game as clear favorites with an 11-point advantage over the Trail Blazers who have managed only a 9-23 record so far this season.
Currently positioned seventh in the Western Conference, Dallas aims to improve its standing and regain momentum after a disappointing performance against the Utah Jazz, where they were defeated 127-90. The loss was highlighted by a dismal fourth quarter, in which the Mavericks scored just 11 points.
Dallas's sharpshooter Luka Doncic, who is averaging 33.4 points and 9.4 assists per game, had a tough night against Utah, making only 3 out of 13 attempts from beyond the arc. As a team, the Mavericks converted only 11 out of 40 three-point shots. They will be looking to bounce back and enhance their home game record, which currently stands at 8-7.
Historical Edge Over Trail Blazers
History appears to be on the side of the Mavericks, having won eight of the last 10 games against Portland since 2021. In their two encounters this season, Dallas has come out on top, averaging an impressive 128 points in those victories. The Trail Blazers, on the other hand, have been on a downward spiral, losing 11 of their last 14 games, including a 109-88 defeat to the Phoenix Suns.
Portland's challenges have been compounded by the absence of Anfernee Simons due to illness and Deandre Ayton sidelined with a knee injury. However, Scoot Henderson has been a bright spot for the Trail Blazers, scoring in double figures for five consecutive games, including a 17-point performance with six assists against the Suns. Jerami Grant and Malcolm Brogdon also contributed with 15 and 10 points respectively in their last outing.
Despite the adversities, the Trail Blazers' away game record stands at a respectable 12-16, indicating that they can still pose a threat when playing on the road.
Coaches Acknowledge Team Shortcomings
After the heavy loss to Utah, Mavericks coach Jason Frederick Kidd did not mince words about his team's performance, stating, "[Utah] was at full speed, we were at half speed." Kidd acknowledged the lack of energy and communication among his players, taking responsibility for the team's shortcomings and emphasizing the need for improvement.
Similarly, Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups reflected on his team's difficulties, particularly during a second quarter where they suffered eight turnovers against the Suns, allowing their opponents to take control of the game. "I thought we had a really good first quarter. Then the second quarter happened," Billups remarked, underscoring the impact of the turnovers on the game's outcome.
Billups also stressed the importance of accountability, regardless of the roster's health status, saying, "I don't make excuses. No matter who's out there, it's an NBA player and someone who deserves to be here." He praised his players for their effort but admitted that it was insufficient to secure a win.
Looking Ahead
As the Mavericks prepare to host the Trail Blazers, both teams face pivotal moments in their seasons. Dallas, eager to leave their recent home game struggles behind, hopes to use the extended home stand to climb higher in the conference rankings. Portland, grappling with injuries and consistency issues, seeks to defy expectations and turn their season around.
The upcoming contest between the Mavericks and the Trail Blazers promises to be a critical juncture, potentially setting the tone for the remainder of the season for both squads. With stakes high and both teams having much to prove, the eyes of basketball fans will be fixed on Dallas as they tip off this crucial home stand.