Dallas Mavericks: The Good And Bad From Week 1
Through seven games the Dallas Mavericks’ record stands at 4-3. Dallas has performed well when taking advantage of the softer opponents on their schedule, but they have struggled against the teams they have faced with a winning record. Let’s take a look at the good and bad in Dallas through seven games.
The Good:
Starting five
You would not know the Mavericks have three new players in their starting lineup if you’ve watched them play. Dallas has gotten off to fast starts this season led by their starting five. Chandler Parsons, Tyson Chandler and Jameer Nelson have joined returning starters Dirk Nowitzki and Monta Ellis to form a starting group that already appears comfortable together on the court.
The Mavericks’ starting five have been in sync early in games, outscoring their opponents by more than six points in the first quarter (28.6 to 22.4). As the season continues to unfold, the starting five in Dallas should become even more effective. The fact that they have gotten off to a fast start with three new starters should provide optimism in Dallas moving forward.
Devin Harris
Devin Harris did not play his first game last season until Jan. 18. Fortunately, the Mavericks did not have to wait that long this season. Harris started the season healthy and he has been the best player on the Mavericks’ second unit.
With Vince Carter‘s departure via free agency, the Mavericks needed Harris to provide energy and offense off the bench. Harris has done just that, averaging 11.3 points and five assists through the Mavericks first six games. Harris has been asked to look for his shot more and early in the season he appears to be more assertive than he was last season. Through six games, Harris is averaging 7.7 field goals attempted per game, the highest number he has had since the 2010-11 season.
The Bad:
Perimeter defense
When examining the Mavericks roster before the season it was evident that perimeter defense would be a challenge for this team. Monta Ellis is fast but he is a bit undersized at the shooting guard position. Jameer Nelson, the Mavericks new starting point guard is strong but he lacks the lateral quickness required to keep up with faster point guards.
This will be a season long issue if the Mavericks’ fail to trade for a capable perimeter defender. Head coach Rick Carlisle no longer has the luxury of selectively using Shawn Marion in that role late in games so he will rely on teamwork and effort to shore up this unit defensively.
Third quarter woes
While the Mavericks are coming out of the gate fast with their starting unit, they have been unable to bring that same level of focus and energy into the third quarter. Through the first six games, the Mavericks have averaged only 22 points scored during the third quarter, while their opponents have carved them up to the tune of 31.3 points.
This has been a hot topic early in the season and this group of experienced veterans should find a way to turn this trend around. If this trend does continue, Carlisle could have his starters on a short leash if they fail to display the energy and focus necessary to win.