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On Tuesday night, the Dallas Mavericks’ journey in the NBA Cup came to an end with a 118-104 defeat at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Mavericks struggled particularly in the second half, notably during the third quarter where they were outscored 33-19. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was outstanding, scoring 39 points against the Mavericks, while Dallas’ top scorer capped at just 19 points.
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The Mavericks could have established an early lead but were hampered by turnovers, recording 11 in the first half alone, despite outshooting the Thunder. Their turnover count reduced to seven in the second half, yet they failed to secure enough defensive stops to close the gap.
Here are three key observations from Tuesday’s game.
READ MORE: Thunder Overpowers Mavericks, 118-104, Bows Out of NBA Cup
1. Luka Doncic’s Struggles Against Physical Defense
Lu Dort’s physical defensive style has consistently posed a challenge for Luka Doncic, and OKC’s strategy effectively limited Doncic’s impact by keeping the ball away from him. Even when Doncic managed to get the ball, he faced intense pressure, often shooting over multiple defenders, which resulted in a disappointing 1-for-9 shooting start. Doncic’s productivity needs to improve against strong teams like OKC.
2. Is PJ Washington’s Presence Crucial?
PJ Washington was absent from the game due to illness, and the Mavericks have now fallen to a 1-5 record without him. Known for his effectiveness against the Thunder, his rebounding skills were greatly missed. The Mavericks’ defensive scheme often pulls their big men to the perimeter to challenge shots, which leaves a void in rebounding that Washington typically fills. His versatility and defensive rebounding are vital for Dallas, and his presence could have helped contain Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
3. Olivier-Maxence Prosper Earns Consideration for Regular Play
Prosper delivered another solid performance, contributing six points and two rebounds, and was the only Maverick to post a positive plus/minus. His vigorous play and determination were key as Dallas attempted a comeback. With the team facing other health concerns, Prosper’s consistent performance may warrant a permanent position in the rotation.
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Mike Johnson is a passionate news writer with a keen interest in current events. With over a decade of experience in journalism, he has a talent for uncovering the stories that matter most. Mike’s insightful articles and in-depth analyses have made him a trusted voice in the industry. He thrives on staying ahead of the news curve, providing readers with timely and relevant information. Whether it’s breaking news, politics, or social issues, Mike’s dedication to the craft ensures that his readers are always well-informed.