After a players-only dinner, and a strong victory against a weak Detroit Pistons team, the Dallas Mavericks took game one of a two-game series against the hobbled Los Angeles Lakers, 115-110.
While it was a great win for this team, Mavs’ star Kristaps Porzingis, went down with an ankle injury in the 3rd quarter. He mentioned that he is feeling fine this morning, which is a good sign. The day after an ankle tweak is a big tell as to how severe the injury is. I fully expect Tingis Pingis to sit on Saturday in game two against LAL, which he should.
The Mavs started the game down 14-6, which aggravates me because they will get eaten alive in the playoffs if they can’t start a game on a positive note. Luckily they stormed back to take an 11-point lead at the half.
Led by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who I believe is a very impressive player, led the Lakers to a huge 21-7 run in the 3rd quarter. This gave LA a 4-point lead at one point. Dallas was able to fight back and keep the lead for the remainder of the game to limp out with a victory.
Anthony Davis came back from missing 30 games due to an Achilles sprain. He was limited to 17 first half minutes, and scored 4 points on 2-10 shooting.
Side note: Andre Drummond is exactly the type of player Dallas needs. They lack beef on the inside. Kristaps and Dwight Powell had a hard time boxing him out, as Drummond ended the night with 19 rebounds, including 6 offensive boards.
Star of the Game
Luka Doncic led the Mavs to a victory last night, tallying 30 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals. He had a scoreless first quarter, and then decided it was time to take over.
We need an aggressive start on Saturday from Luka, or else the Mavs won’t be so lucky to come out with a win next time against the defending champs.
Biggest Concern
Kristaps’ ankle.
We are still waiting on the final word for the severity of the injury. Optimism is our only friend at this point and time.
Surprise Contribution
Big Willie impressed with 11 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks, and a team-high +18. He was the only one who gave Andre Drummond an ounce of trouble last night. Hoping to see more big minutes on Saturday from the Kentucky Wildcat.
Next Game
Saturday night at home, facing the Lakers again. 7:30pm CT
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