The Thunder came into this game knowing that the Mavericks would be without star rookie Luka Doncic. The Mavericks played as if Luka was never missing from the game. This could be Dirk Nowitzki’s last game in Oklahoma City and the Mavericks played with a little more effort to make it happen. In Dirk’s career, he’s had some big games against the Thunder and was able to leave the OKC crowd with a couple of moments today. Dirk finished the game with 7 points and a season-high 13 rebounds in the game today. Dirk will be remembered for his memorable one-legged jumper that he has patented throughout his career. The Thunder got down early in the game and it seemed as if they couldn’t catch a break every time they got within one point or if they had a lead. OKC played amazing defense throughout the night. Also, they were able to execute plays the way they were supposed too but the Mavs hit some tough shots. Trey Burke was the bright spot in this game today for the Mavericks as he was able to hit some tough shots from the perimeter and he was attacking as well. Burke finished with 25 points on the night and he was able to create for the Mavs as well finishing with 8 assists. Another player who stepped up for the Mavericks was Jalen Brunson as he added 18 points to help Dallas get this victory. Brunson was able to slash to the basket and forced the Thunder to defend him throughout as he reminded people of a JJ Barea. The Mavericks shot 42.5% from the field and were able to get a lot of tough shots to fall on today. The Thunder players were draped all over the Mavs players but they hit tough shots and got the Thunder in foul trouble.
The Thunder were able to get back into the game multiple times as Russell Westbrook led the charger. When Westbrook puts his mind to it to take over a game he’s completely unstoppable. Offensively Russell Westbrook was able to do everything in his power to put the Thunder in a position to win at the end of the game. Westbrook finished with 25 points, 11 assists, and 11 rebounds for another triple-double. Westbrook has been able to impose his will on this team and continues to give that spark that they need. People jump on Westbrook about his shooting but it’s better to have someone that will shoot and not be too passive. Westbrook has been able to create for teammates and play within the game. Westbrook also doesn’t get enough credit for how much he’s helped, Paul George and Steven Adams. Today against the Mavericks was a perfect example because George finished with 27 points and Steven finished with 20 points and 15 rebounds. Paul has acknowledged that his shoulder’s banged up but that hasn’t stopped him and he proved that today against the Mavs with Justin Jackson guarding him. Paul has still been an MVP candidate and he’s been able to defend at a high level while banged up. The Mavs didn’t defend Westbrook or George any special way today they missed shots that they usually make on the regular. Steven Adams was able to be a beast in the paint today for the Thunder and should be a mismatch on a nightly basis with the center position becoming more extinct. The Thunder had multiple chances in this game today and they missed a couple of open looks that led to the loss today against the Mavericks.
The Thunder beat themselves today and will have the Lakers coming to town on Tuesday as they look to bounce back after tonight.
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