Final: Hornets 97, Mavs 87
Box Score | Highlights
Behind the Box Score
Despite shooting only 39 percent in the second quarter, the Mavericks offense scored a solid 1.038 points per possession in the frame, outscoring Charlotte 27-21 during that time. Dallas did it by hitting 3s but, more importantly, shooting seven free throws and only turning the ball over three times. The Mavs also earned three second chances via offensive rebounds in the second. I can’t stress enough how beneficial avoiding turnovers and getting to the stripe can be for an offense, especially one missing this much firepower.
Notebook
Once again, the Mavericks hung in there, despite the injuries and fatigue, both physical and emotional. The Mavs might be outplayed talent-wise some nights, but they’re never going to lay down. That was Wesley Matthews’ message after the game last night, but it would hold true tonight, as well.
Deron Williams has been working himself back into a full-time rotation spot after missing some time due to injury. He had a strong third quarter last night against San Antonio before unfortunately reaching his minutes limit and having to sit for the entirety of the fourth. Tonight, however, that wasn’t the case, as the club managed his minutes a little tighter in the early goings to ensure he’d be able to at least play in the fourth quarter, though his minutes were again cut short early, up to 29 from 26. Williams finished with 14 points and eight assists, in what was one of his best performances of the season. The Mavs have been severely shorthanded at point guard all season long, but with the return of Williams and the debut of Devin Harris, who’s played 11 minutes in consecutive games, the depth is quickly growing stronger.
Justin Anderson put together another terrific individual performance, finishing with 15 points and three rebounds off the bench. The second-year pro has now reached double-figures in four of his last five games. This is perhaps his best stretch as a pro. We looked at why that might be the case the other day on Mavs Facebook Live, so check it out if you get the chance, but essentially what we focused on is Anderson’s energy level and decisiveness in this recent run of games. He’s making an impact on games with his physicality and explosiveness, and that’s what the Mavs hoped to see from him when they drafted him last summer.
What’s Next
The Mavs (3-15) play the Chicago Bulls (10-7) on Saturday at American Airlines Center at 7:30 p.m. Central.
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