Nick Angstadt here, the host of the daily Locked On Mavericks podcast, with your daily Locked On Mavericks newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Mavericks and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Why the Dallas Mavericks Struggled Against the OKC Thunder in the NBA Cup
Dec 10, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) walks down the court during a time out against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams/Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Mavericks’ Struggles Against Thunder: A Game of Missed Opportunities
The Dallas Mavericks faced a challenging game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, resulting in a 118-104 loss. This matchup highlighted several key issues for the Mavericks, particularly Luka Doncic’s performance. Doncic struggled significantly, scoring only 16 points with six turnovers. The Thunder’s defensive strategy, which involved doubling Doncic and playing physically, disrupted his usual gameplay. This approach forced him into difficult shots and passing errors, which the Thunder capitalized on, turning turnovers into crucial points.
Luka Doncic’s Tough Night
Doncic’s performance was arguably his worst of the season. The Thunder’s defense was relentless, doubling him off screens and pressuring him into mistakes. This aggressive defense is a hallmark of the Thunder, who lead the league in creating turnovers. Doncic’s long outlet passes, typically effective against other teams, were intercepted by the Thunder’s quick and athletic players. The Mavericks’ inability to adjust their offensive strategy to counter this pressure was evident, as they failed to create effective plays for Doncic to exploit.
Offensive Adjustments Needed
The Mavericks’ offensive woes were not limited to Doncic. Kyrie Irving also struggled to make a significant impact. Irving scored 17 points but was effectively neutralized by the Thunder’s defense, particularly by Lu Dort, who made it difficult for Irving to find his rhythm. The Mavericks need to incorporate more dynamic offensive strategies to free up their star players. This includes setting up plays that allow Doncic and Irving to receive the ball in more advantageous positions, rather than relying solely on one-on-one matchups.
The Thunder’s athleticism was a significant factor in their victory. They were quicker to the ball, more aggressive in defense, and capitalized on the Mavericks’ mistakes. The Mavericks’ lack of athleticism was apparent, as they struggled to keep up with the Thunder’s pace and intensity. This disparity was evident in the transition game and points off turnovers, where the Thunder excelled.
The Mavericks’ coaching staff must address these issues to improve their performance in future games. Adjustments in strategy, particularly in how they handle defensive pressure and create opportunities for their star players, are crucial. The Mavericks have the talent, but they need to find ways to utilize it more effectively against teams like the Thunder.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Mavericks’ strategies and challenges, tune into the Locked On Mavericks podcast for this and much more.
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) waves to the crowd after making a three point shot in against the New York Knicks in the fourth quarter during game five in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. | Wendell Cruz/Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports
A strange development of last night’s first round of quarter finals matchups is that I wasn’t anticipating having my heart break for the Orlando Magic. What an effort by a team that has been told over and over again that they are both down and out, and still refuses to acknowledge the veracity of either point.
Orlando’s game against Milwaukee felt contentious, engaged, and energetic, a game with stakes. The NBA Cup has been drawing out competition across the board but I have to give the Magic credit for showing up on the stage the tournament set. That was all them, and all heart.
But enough gushing (for now), onto tonight’s final two games.
Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks
There are a handful of athletes in the NBA, anywhere really, comfortable with playing the villain. Trae Young is one of them. Young has leaned into every opportunity to add fuel to the fire of Knicks’ fans disdain for the showy shooter, a grudge going strong since the 2021 playoffs.
It’ll be tougher for Young to take a bow against this Knicks team.
Though they were slower to get on the same page, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns have synced up as maybe the best and most overpowering offensive duo in the league. The Knicks are first overall in points scored per 100 possessions since the start of this season, and second overall in their effective field goal percentage. In their efficiency differential — points per 100 possessions minus points allowed — they trail only the heavy hitters of the season: OKC, Boston, Cleveland and Memphis. Things are clicking in New York.
The Hawks have had a string of injuries, notably Jalen Johnson and Bogdan Bogdanovic/ De’Andre Hunter and Young himself are both listed as probable for the game in New York. The silver lining, beyond whatever happens inside Young’s brain when he gets within the municipality limits for New York City, is that the Hawks have a 5-1 record against the Cavs, Celtics, Knicks and Bucks this season — this team loves to play up. They’ve also taken a defensive jump, are 6th in the league for offensive rebounds thanks to Johnson, rookie Zaccharie Risacher has been a boon, and Atlanta doesn’t mind playing the pest.
Whether this will be the kind of number found on Broadway or off, it’ll be a show.
Golden State Warriors vs. Houston Rockets
What the Rockets aren’t generous about is their defence — the team is one of the most smothering defenders in the league. What they are generous about have been their fines, with head coach Ime Udoa and guard Fred VanVleet ponying up (you’ll be happy to know all fines go to charity). Houston will need all of its efforts in the former to beat the Warriors tonight.
Where the Rockets can’t do much defensively has been way out in the offensive no man’s land of the floor, the place where Steph Curry thrives. The Warriors have a 15 game winning streak going against Houston, largely because of Curry, in general, and lately because of where he capitalizes his efforts against a young team he can easily disorganize with his disruptive shooting.
Houston’s opportunities come in second chance points when they blitz the glass, in pressuring turnovers, and in playing very close basketball. The Rockets are one of the worst shooting teams in the NBA and yet, they’ve made it work, digging in to make every possession matter. The Warriors are in a slump, but the duo of Curry and Draymond Green can make light work of any team when they’re on the floor, Jonathan Kuminga continues to climb, and head coach Steve Kerr’s said that Andrew Wiggins should see minutes tonight.
Udoka called the Rockets last game against the Warriors, when they were thoroughly pummelled, one of the team’s “softest games” since his arrival, so there’s plenty of incentive for Houston to take the win tonight. Those are also the kinds of games, and hopes, that Steph Curry loves to snuff out like a candle.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Celebrate Here’s why Jared McCain is using his platform to highlight women’s sports. (Inquirer)
Analysis Trae Young has beef with the Knicks — this is why. (Sporting News)
Rumor Playoff Jimmy in the Lone Star State? The Mavs are one potential landing spot for Jimmy Butler. (Sports Illustrated)
Roster Despite not playing in last night’s loss, P.J. Washington has proven his worth to the team. (The Smoking Cuban)
Ticket Booth
Presented by
TBD @ Mavericks
TBD | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX | Get Tickets
Clippers @ Mavericks
Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7:30PM | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX | Get Tickets
Clippers @ Mavericks
Saturday, Dec. 21 | 7:30PM | American Airlines Center, Dallas, TX | Get Tickets
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Fantasy Takeaways From Tuesday’s NBA Cup Games
Dec 10, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) shoots over Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Doncic (77) and center Dereck Lively II (2) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images | Alonzo Adams/Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
NBA Cup Quarterfinals: Winners, Losers, and Fantasy Takeaways
Two of the four NBA Cup quarterfinal games are in the books, and it’s time to dissect the outcomes and what it means for fantasy managers.
One of the most pressing issues is the status of Immanuel Quickley. Despite the frustration surrounding his limited playtime due to injury, I firmly believe in his potential as a top 50 player this season. However, if you’re struggling with multiple injuries on your roster, it might be time to reconsider holding onto him. Evaluate your roster carefully and weigh Quickley’s potential against the immediate needs of your team.
Scottie Barnes’ situation is equally concerning. Although initial X-rays were negative, the possibility of a Lisfranc injury looms large. If confirmed, this could sideline Barnes for a significant portion of the season. Fantasy managers should brace for his absence and explore alternative options to fill the void.
Waiver Wire Trends and Player Evaluations
The waiver wire has been buzzing with activity, and several players have emerged as hot commodities. Kelly Olynyk’s rise in popularity is likely a response to Barnes’ injury, but his role remains uncertain. While Olynyk is a solid fantasy option, his long-term value is questionable given his defensive limitations and the presence of younger, more versatile players.
Cole Anthony’s recent performance has sparked debate among fantasy managers. Despite a lackluster shooting night, the decision to add him was sound, given the Magic’s need for shot generation. It’s crucial to focus on the process rather than the immediate results when evaluating players like Anthony. His role may fluctuate, but the potential for future contributions remains.
Click the button below to get a full breakdown on who fantasy managers should keep an eye on after last night’s games.
The Dallas Mavericks secured a thrilling victory against the Toronto Raptors, showcasing the prowess of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. With clutch performances from the Mavs, including standout plays by Klay Thompson, the team demonstrated why they’re a force in the NBA.
Isaac Harris talks about the discourse around Klay Thompson in the middle of the Mavs winning 10 of their last 11 games. His role on the team, season he’s having, and what the Mavs brought him in to do. Plus, do the Mavs have a complete roster?
The Dallas Mavericks secured a victory against the Washington Wizards, showcasing the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. With Klay Thompson’s performance under scrutiny, the Mavs continue to dominate the NBA landscape, proving their prowess in the league.
