SB Nation - Jason Terry

Wednesday Morning Roundup

Wes Cox — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 16:04:00 -0000

More photos » by Tony Gutierrez - AP

Home sick: Dallas Mavericks off target in loss to Blazers at AAC | DMN
"Nine times out of 10, I'm going to make that shot," he said. "I'm not second-guessing myself. If we get a timeout, do we score? We don't know. Maybe next time we'll call a timeout. But me, I'm sprinting down there and trying to attack the basket. It was an aggressive play. It didn't go our way tonight. And you feel bad. But it's one game. Let's go on to the next one." Coach Rick Carlisle took responsibility for not calling a timeout. That strategy has worked a couple of times this season for them. But he couldn't have planned on Kidd getting tangled up on the shot by Roy

Dallas Basketball - Mavs' Kidd Asks, 'What Happened?!' Portland Beats Dazed-And-Confused Dallas
"What happened?!" asked a dazed-and-confused Jason Kidd in the final seconds of Tuesday's home meeting with the Blazers. "What happened?!" Mavs trainer Casey Smith, tending to the Dallas quarterback after a frightening fall, provided a cursory answer, probably not getting to all the details about how defender Kidd has been flattened with 14 seconds remaining and Dallas down two, about how teammate Jason Terry had collected the ball and rushed upcourt, hurrying a difficult shot when they was no sense in hurrying ... in fact, when there was no sense in Jet shooting at all, as the Mavs inexplicably passed on stopping the clock to set up a final possession, leaving Kidd on the floor behind them, to instead try to score 4-on-5. "Why," Kidd then asked Smith, "didn't we call a timeout?"

Dallas Basketball - Mavs Wednesday Morning Donuts: What's The Debate?
"Kidd is down, so it probably would have been wiser to call timeout," Nowitzki said after Tuesday's 85-81 loss to Portland. "But hey, we've been good on the fly before -- getting a stop and then being aggressive in transition. So, we can't really fault Jet on that. He made an aggressive play, got to the basket and then just didn't get the roll. Afterwards you're always smarter, and it probably would have been better to pull the ball out, get a timeout and set the play up and try to tie the game up."

As another solid night of defense goes unrewarded, Nowitzki vents frustration | DMN, Texas | Dallas Morning News
The frustration is building in Nowitzki. He sees his team holding opponents to 85 points and not winning. He's not happy about it. "It just feels like, at home, I've got to make every shot down the stretch to win," he said. "That's how it feels. ... So we got to figure out something."

Elbow doesn't bother Dirk | ESPN Dallas
Dirk didn't have any problem shooting the ball, knocking down 10 of 13 shots during a 27-point performance. He tried to avoid contact with his elbow, using his hands instead of forearm while playing post defense. "It worked out pretty good," he said. "It wasn’t actually too sore."

Mavericks Fall Late to Portland, Lose 85-81

zdgmans — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 04:31:38 -0000

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After collecting a win from the Cleveland Cavaliers without the help of the Dirk Nowitzki, the 20-8 Dallas Mavericks see Nowitzki return to the starting line-up for tonight’s game against the Portland Trailblazers.

Portland currently sits at 17-12 in the Northwest division, and at 7-8 on the road. To take control of the game the Mavericks will need to limit Brandon Roy’s impact by forcing the ball out of his hands early and often. The fast break of the Blazers will also be a real test for the Mavericks transition defense.

Does the Dallas defense continue to shine?

Game as a Whole:

After all my talk of how the Mavericks have become a team that closes out the fourth quarter strong they blow what could have been a tying basket in the fourth quarter due to two bad decisions (noted below). I can understand why Jason Terry thought it was a good idea to push the ball up the floor and try to catch Portland sleeping but with a loss on the books it obviously was a gamble Dallas shouldn’t have taken.

Both teams came out in the first quarter with atrocious shooting but things quickly picked up in the 2^nd quarter for the Blazers while the Mavericks continued to sputter. Give the coaching staff credit here as the Mavericks stay motivated coming into the second half even when they are down. A furious 3^rd quarter barrage of baskets and tough defense put Dallas in a position to win but they couldn’t capitalize.

Should Dallas have been in this situation? Do you get a better look at the basket if you take a timeout in that instance? These are the types of questions Dallas inevitably tries to answer as they prepare for their game on Saturday.

Let’s look at the quarters…

1st Quarter:

After two jump balls Mavericks steal the opening tip, ball goes to the Blazers.
11:12, Barea opens the game with a three pointer. Seems that Rick Carlisle likes to start games with this play?
10:26, Erick Dampier is padding his rebound stats early. He misses two put-backs in close. Have to capitalize on all the easy baskets.
9:42, Dirk gets a short baseline jumper after he gets blocked on a put back. Mavericks seem to be missing everything in close.
8:51, Marion has rushed a couple of shots early. How is Portland’s defense bothering him that much?
7:58, Mr. Przybilla gets called for the flop. No foul shots for Erick Dampier.
7:02, Shawn Marion waves goodbye to his teammates as he is banished to the bench due to his second foul. Josh Howard comes in early, looks like he might play major minutes tonight.
6:16, Both teams are having a lot of trouble putting the ball in the basket. Dirk tries to throw a fast break pass to Howard but commits a turnover instead.
5:27, Eric Dampier gets fouled as he tries to "cherry pick" a basket. He misses it and goes to the line for two shots. Erick Dampier says "no" to making either shot.
4:53, Great ball movement leads to a short jumper from Dirk. It was all thanks to Jason Terry and an aggressive drive to the basket.
3:45, Another short jumper from the elbow (yes, it’s fine, and that was a great tie in) for Dirk. Again, Jason Terry aggressive drive leads to a basket.
3:12, Przybilla goes down while trying to grab an offensive rebound (Portland has been hexed). Jason Terry capitalizes and makes a three at the other end. Terry is being very productive at the beginning of this game.
2:21, Dampier is committed to getting some turnovers! He throws it way too high for Terry for the backcourt violation.
1:02, Off the Dirk save, Jason Kidd hits a streaking Josh Howard for a fast break layup.
:2.4, Bayless gets called for the push. Mavericks will get one more shots.

2nd Quarter:

11:38, Mavericks shooting 25% after a Tim Thomas missed three.
10:58, After having a monster game on Sunday, Gooden cannot get anything to fall into the basket. I think he could close his eyes and throw it up and it would have a better chance of falling in.
10:34, Barea hits another three.
9:47, Josh Howard ties the game with a 13-foot jumper coming off of a screen.
9:15, Gooden throws down a dunk and is given two points in exchange for his effort.
8:39, Portland has already rung up their fourth foul of the quarter. Mavericks need to keep attacking the basket.
7:53, Gooden throws a touchdown pass to Josh Howard. Howard makes his second fast break layup of the game. Why isn’t he dunking the ball?
7:12, Barea looks like whirling dervish in the lane. He hits a spinning layup.
6:52, That’s another fast break layup for Josh Howard. He is running the floor really well. Seems like someone turned the heat up on the Mavericks.
6:38, Drew Gooden block and he then runs the floor and gets the ball right back for a layup.
(Note: Didn’t know that the Mavericks lead the league in blocked shots. Good to know. Defense wins championships.)
3:29, The Mavericks of the first quarter are back.
3:09, Terry snakes into the lane for a 2-point layup.
2:37, Erick Dampier gets fouled on the pass but the Blazers are in the penalty. Two shots come Dampier’s way (he only makes 1 of 2).
1:32, Defensive three second violation on the Blazers. Even though we need easy buckets, Dirk misses.
Mavericks do not close the quarter on a positive note. How is it Dampier who is taking a three pointer at the end of the quarter?

3rd Quarter:

11:44 early Dirk jumper. Mavericks are ready to make some baskets.
10:53, Barea starts his quarter with a runner instead of a three. Still counts.
10:07, Marion misses another shot in the lane. Erick Dampier is the garbage man on the play.
9:35, Erick Dampier pulls out his Windex to cleanup the glass. Gets fouled on an attempted put back. Makes 1 of 2.
9:02, Lob to Dampier for the score. The Mavericks are attacking the Portland small lineup with Erick Dampier.
8:25, Even when Marion isn’t having a goodnight he still keeps up the defensive intensity. Offensive foul is charged to Lamarcus Aldridge.
7:58, Jason Kidd for three with no toes on the line.
7:30, Serious dish to Erick Dampier in the paint from Kidd. Add another easy layup to Erick Dampier’s stat sheet.
7:11, Portland asks for another offensive foul and the refs are generous enough to give it to Martell Webster.
6:55, Barea miraculously flips a layup toward the cup and it falls in.
5:47, Dirk bails out Barea with a midrange jumper. Barea had nowhere to go on the play.
4:59, Back-to-back baskets by Dirk. Will the next play be a Dirk pull up three?
4:31, The Mavericks are now doing better than the federal government (they have erased their deficit.) The lead is now 1 for Dallas.
4:01, The lane is open for Barea and he keeps attacking it. Juwan Howard gets called for a flagrant on the play when he goes headhunting and Barea hits the technical. Dampier immediately gets fouled
3:30, The Blazers are on lockdown right now. Shot clock violation for the Blazers.
3:19, Barea hits another basket in the lane. All of his shots are gold.
1:33, Steve Blake pokes Dirk in the eye on a play. Dirk gets free throws for it. Thankfully, no pieces of the finger are left behind.
:47.8, There is the trailing Dirk three I mentioned earlier.

4th Quarter:

10:50, Gooden turns down an open jump shot for an aggressive drive to the rum. He makes one of two free throws.
10:37, Steve Blake picks up an early holiday gift (offensive foul) special wrapped by Jose Juan Barea.
9:19, Dirk gathers his own miss for a put back 2-pointer. Who is playing the five on the floor right now Dirk or Drew Gooden?
6:41, Barea shoots a three instead of taking it into the lane. I don’t know where the scoring went all of a sudden.
6:08, Luckily Barea makes a three. Mavericks still need to take it into the lane and force the issue.
3:16, Barea stops what would have been a dagger basket. He picks up the charge on Bayless.
2:02, Dirk draws the foul on Aldridge. Dirk goes to the line and misses his first shot.
Mavericks broadcast totally miss the out of bounds call on Roy. Glad that they aren’t paid to be refs.
1:16, Dirk steps into a three from Jason Kidd. This is gong to be a tense minute.
:53.1, Jason Kidd forces Brandon Roy to step out of bounds. Dirk misses the game tying shot.
Bad decision by Terry to try and drive the ball all the way to the cup instead of passing it off to Dirk (trailing the play). Second bad decision goes to Rick Carlisle who needs to take a timeout.
Mavs can’t pull out the last-minute win.

Some Choice Statistics:

Dallas only scored 14 points in the first quarter. That is the lowest point total for a first quarter this year. The lowest point total scored in any quarter by the Dallas Mavericks is 2, which came against the Lakers (April 6^th, 1997).
In their history the Mavericks are 68-80 in the playoffs. That’s a winning percentage of 45%.
The Mavericks only have two numbers retired in their history. They are #15 Brad Davis and #22 Rolando Blackman.

Closing Thoughts:

ne bad choice is all it takes to blow a game.

Game 30 Preview: Blazers vs. Mavericks

Dave — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:19:43 -0000

"What an evil fortune! And I am already weary."

Yes, a Balrog is come. Or at least Dirk Nowitzki, provided he plays. He sat out their last game with elbow problems and is a game-day decision at last report. Dallas is 20-8 on the season and managed to muster enough oomph to beat Cleveland on Sunday, so whether the Blazers get to say "Fröhliches Schlechteshaartag!" to Mr. Nowitzki or not, they're in for a fight as this worst-case-scenario road trip continues.

It'll take considerable wizardry for Portland to overcome Dallas' multi-pronged attack. You already know about Dirk and his offensive brilliance. He's been all-but unstoppable for the Blazers since early in his career. But the Mavs also rely on Shawn Marion and the recently-returned Josh Howard, both of whom can step up the scoring when needed and both of whom have been in strong double-figures the last four games. Jason Terry is either on or off nowadays but when he's on he's as dangerous as ever, especially to a team that has problems defending perimeter guys. Jason Kidd and Jose Juan Barea also lurk in the Dallas backcourt, each of whom has given the Blazers trouble in the past. Up front they have Erick Dampier to body Joel Przybilla, Drew Gooden, and Tim Thomas, who just scored 22 against the Cavs subbing in for Nowitzki. All of them see playing time and you can't take any of them lightly. These are veterans, for the most part decorated, and they know how to win any type of game from any position.

The hallmark of Dallas' attack is versatility. They can score from any range. They will run whenever they can but are plenty good in the halfcourt as well. Whenever you apply pressure they'll find the open man and live with his shot. They play 9-10 guys and don't tire. They'll try to take out the middle on defense and live with your jumpers. What they lack in defensive chops they make up for by being a good rebounding team. They block shots, create turnovers, hit free throws...all of the little things that bolster their point margin enough to make them dominant. It's hard to find a real weakness overall except to say that the teams that tend to blitz them for 48 minutes find the most success. Energy and a quick attack can sometimes bowl them over. Just facing them mano-a-mano seldom succeeds. Unfortunately that's just how the Blazers usually operate. That's why tonight is not likely to be fun.

Keys to the Game

1. "You...shall not...pass!"

The Mavs depend on you to commit to a player (usually Nowitzki) and throw extra men at him. Then they drop the ball to whoever you left and take advantage of your scrambling. Especially if Dirk is out the Blazers have to stop the ball from moving around. Play the passing lanes. Live with a single guy scoring if that means everybody else gets short shrift. Only Nowitzki will beat you by himself on this roster. Everybody else needs everybody else.

2. "A wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to."

Since most of the main players can hit from a variety of places you're not free to sag off of them and depend on getting back to their sweet spots before they make it there. To the extent that you do rotate and help (which the Blazers do a ton) you must get back quickly. The idea is to commit fully and execute whether you're coming in to help or recovering. Getting caught in no-man's-land against this team is a bad idea.

3. "Fly you fools!"

Dallas doesn't need a bunch of fast break points to win but they'll sure take them. Like the Fellowship at the bridge the Blazers need to get back on defense.

4. "Fool of a Took! Throw yourself in next time, and rid us of your stupidity."

The Mavericks will let you score on them but you have to be smart about how you do it. They're a good defensive rebounding team which means you can't count on second-chance points to bail you out. The Blazers have to shoot a high percentage which means moving the ball themselves, probing, drawing attention, and then finding the open man...pretty much the same thing Dallas will try. Brandon Roy needs to have an efficient game and draw coverage and the Blazers need to take advantage from there. If Roy is missing a ton or if the Blazers hold the ball or settle for taking people one-on-one this game is going to be hard to win.

5. "Even the very wise cannot see all ends."

Anybody can beat anybody on a given night. The Mavericks have lost to some sub-par teams this year. Don't assume the game is easier if Nowitzki doesn't play. Don't assume the win is out of reach if he does. Put in the energy, execute, and see what happens.

Check out the Dallas point of view at the venerable MavsMoneyball.

Enter tonight's Jersey Contest form here.

--Dave (blazersub@yahoo.com)

P.S. Oops! Almost forgot: Game Time: 5:30 PM Pacific TV: Comcast

Game Recap: Extended Burn from Rockets Downs Dallas 116-108

zdgmans — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 05:35:36 -0000

by Tony Gutierrez - AP

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The 14-11 Rockets blast into the American Airlines Center hoping to steal some of the Mavericks Thunder in the Southwest division. The Mavericks look to push their winning streak to six games and continue rolling along in the West.

Did forces conspire against the Mavericks to keep them down?

Game as a Whole:

This rivalry has gotten a lot more intense in the last couple of season. Could it be that the Rockets could be poised to overtake the Spurs as the rivalry match that every Dallas fan looks forward to with bitter hatred in their hearts? Even with a Maverick loss this was a very entertaining, albeit a bit frustrating, basketball game to watch (both teams clearly came to play).

The Mavericks jumped out to a hot start and looked like they were firing on all cylinders in the first quarter (looked like we were on our way to a severe routing). The Rockets proceeded to push back, and to complicate matters the Mavericks lost Dirk on a layup in traffic that led to a “deep laceration” of the golden elbow.

The Rockets continued their dominance in the 3^rd quarter and this is normally where Maverick fan would begin to cringe a bit thinking that the Dallas 5 game win streak would be coming to a horrible end. That was the Mavericks of old; the new Mavericks have been staking their claim as closers with the 4^th quarter of tonight’s game being a prime example.

The end of the 4^th quarter was a joy to watch for the Mavericks as a whole. Overcoming a ten point lead to tie the game on the back of a strong defensive showing is something that only veteran teams can do consistently, it’s unfortunate it had to end in an overtime collapse.

Let’s look at the quarters...

1st Quarter:

4th time in less than two months that both the Rockets and Mavericks have met.
JJ Barea gets the start again. I think Roddy is officially in the dog house unless Barea royally messes up.
Trying to get Marion going early but he blows the layup. Great idea to get Marion active inside at the start of the game.
10:52, Barea snakes right to the baseline and hits a smooth layup after getting around the help defender.
10:11, Coming off a screen, Barea takes and makes a three-pointer. He is definitely looking for his shot early. Pokes the ball away on the next Rockets possession, which leads to a shot clock violation.
Erick Dampier should really be dominating Chuck Hayes as he gives up six inches in height. Mavericks need to start throwing it inside.
8:31, Mavericks ugly turnover as Erick Dampier tries to thread the needle to Marion under the basket. No way Dampier should ever be making that pass.
7:57, Dirk with the up and under. He doesn't use that as often as he should.
7:26, Barea gives Dampier a pass, which I swear the old Dampier would have fumbled. Super Dampier actually catches the pass and hits a reverse. I don't know what alternate reality I am in but I like it.
6:56, The Mavs are playing stifling defense, causing a second Rockets shot clock violation.
5:56, Barea makes a left-handed circus shot that hits high off the glass. He gets an "and 1" for his troubles. Everyone is looking really aggressive tonight.
5:24, Marion is back in the paint for a two point basket. Barea gets beat by Brookes :(
4:24, Dirk takes it to the rim for a dunk in traffic. He rarely dunks after blowing by his man. A sign of confidence?
Marion seems to have a bit of trouble getting his rebound and putting it back in the basket. You have to applaud the hustle but they don't have a column for that on the stats sheet.
3:26, Gooden comes in and grabs an offensive board. Gets fouled on the put back attempt. He nails both free-throws.
Marion and Gooden are both in the paint gathering offensive rebounds and looking to score. 16 points in the paint this quarter. We keep putting up this many points in the paint and we will grab our sixth win in a row.
Gooden has gotten a ton of offensive rebounds this quarter.
:47, Josh Howard hits a trailing jump shot on the fast break from Kidd.
If we were making all these put backs we would be up be 100 points (hyperbole).

2nd Quarter:

Aggression getting the best of the Mavericks? Offensive foul for Barea, play before that he loses the ball.
10:29, transition three from Josh Howard. Jump shot looks great, think the ankle is fine.
9:28, Dirk drives and gets fouled by Carl Landry. Huge cut on his elbow, doesn't look like it feels too good. Dirk hits 1 out of 2 left handed, because he’s good like that. Goes back to the locker room.
Humphries, time to step up man.
8:09, Josh Howard misses an 18 footer and does his best Shane Battier impression against Shane Battier (draws charge). No, a black hole did not open up.
7:20, Gooden gets called for an offensive play. Refs have decided that they want to call the game extremely tight now.
6:33, Barea shows why you hustle for every ball. Decides to let a ball go out which he could have easily grabbed. Possession went to Houston.
Dirk has to get stitches after the collision.
Houston has scored seven straight to take the lead 37-30. Howard counters back with a 2 point layup. Where did the Mavericks from the 1st quarter go?
Need Dirk back. Kidd steal with 3:48, nothing comes of it.
3:12, Barea takes it into the paint and has to throw up a wild shot. Dampier offensive rebound and draws a foul. 1 of 2 free-throws made.
2:24, Dampier goes back to the line. He should start going strong to the basket and dunking it.
There is no one who is even close to his size on the Rockets. Hits 1 of 2 again.
0 for 5 Jason Terry. Is there a lid on the basket for him?
The Rockets are helping the Mavericks out so much but they are still completely failing to score anything in the last three minutes.
Side note, the "Ketchup and Mustard" uniforms for the Rockets are horrible. Who thought that was a good idea? Unless they wanted to blind the Mavericks with ugly…
:51, Jason Terry is a shooter and hits a timely three. Jason Terry rushes a three in the attempt to go 2 for 1.
:2, Marion dunk off a nice assist from Barea to end the half.

3rd Quarter:

11:41, Brooks continues the hot start. Can someone please step up and stop this guy?
10:03, Two Barea back-to-back baskets are what is keeping us in the game right now. Dirk will not be returning. Can I dub Barea mini-Dirk?
8:51, only down four, thanks to a Shawn Marion two point shot. The Matrix is having a great game tonight.
8:02, Barea draws the Mavericks within 1. The Mavericks are starting to get back into a groove.
6:18, Practically two minutes without a basket? What the heck is going on here?
4:54, Trevor Ariza starts his highlight reel for tonight. Going on a bit of a scoring tear.
3:44, Drew Gooden two point shot keeping it close. Shawn Marion filling the stat sheet with an assist on the play.
:02, Tim Thomas cuts off a Rockets surge with a three pointer to end the quarter. Not much good happened in this quarter.

4th Quarter:

7:37, Clear path foul on Terry. This is clearly a blown call as you watch the reply JET is step for step with his man. This may be a game changer.
6:53, Kidd gets a tech for fighting? This is just pure comedy, seems that Tim Thomas was the instigator as he comes in and throws the first push.
4:35, the refs are taking over the game. Now Dampier gets a technical foul.
87-95, it’s looking all down hill for the Mavericks. Brooks is currently picking the Mavs apart.
2:43, Kidd taking (and making) a long two. Not the type of shot you want to be taking right now. Low percentage.
1:53, Kidd grabs his 10^th board and gets fouled. We are coming back thanks to the free-throw line.
1:05, Shawn Marion stops a Rockets fast break, starts a Mavericks fast break, and then he is rewarded with a layup. That could go down as a top play of the year.
:19.1, Kidd fouls but Brooks misses his first free-throw. Who do you go to now for the three pointer to tie? Jason Terry is having an off night.
:10.5, Tim Thomas with the clutch three to knot the game at 100 all. It really was a great shot fake.
Shawn Marion deserves the game ball tonight. He has done it all. Time looks like it is going back on the clock. Who would you give the ball to with Dirk out?
Scratch that, refs don’t put any more time back on the clock, :04 left in the quarter. Matrix can’t put it in for the win.

Overtime:

4:08, Jason Kidd with a bank shot. I cannot believe this.
3:53, Josh Howard hurts the team by getting a technical foul after a made basket. Luckily the Rockets miss the free throw.
3:31, Scola tried to flop on Dampier but the refs don’t buy it. Easy score for Dampier, I’ll take it.
3:00, Jason Terry takes an ill-advised three. Bad choice, everything should be going to the paint.
Brooks has been destroying us all night, only fitting he continues to kill us in overtime.
Flagrant foul on Brooks gives us an extra shot plus 2 free throws.
Eric Dampier also gets a technical and is ejected (means the opposing coach gets to choose the free throw shooter). We get Kris Humphries at the line, makes 1 of 2.
Jason Terry, takes another poor three to kill the Mavericks chances.
Rick Carlisle gives the Rockets a nightcap by getting ejected on his second technical.
Mavericks lose 116-108

Some Choice Statistics:

Mavericks longest winning streak is 17 games (06-07). Golden State Warriors ended the streak.
Dirk, on the quest for 20,000, currently sits at 19,784 points scored. Don’t think he will be catching Kareem by the end of his career.
5 plays were reviewed by referees in tonight’s game. That has got to be a record.

Closing Thoughts:

Overtime losses hurt the most.No matter what anyone would like to believe, this games outcome, while tempered by refs, was not absolutely determined by the “zebras”. The Mavericks had their chances in overtime but they, suffered from an uncharacteristic loss of composure, perhaps due to the loss

Engaging The Enemy: The Houston Rockets

Phillip Baggett — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:28:33 -0000

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Well folks it is game night again, and I have had about all I can stand, for this week anyhow, of trying to design a new template for my usual game previews. So what I thought we would do as a simple diversion from the norm, was get with tonight's opponent for a little Q&A.

I reached out to Lee Grammier over at The Dreamshake and he so graciously accepted the invite. Since I am a refugee in Houston from Arlington, Texas I have the privilege of listening to all the Dallas smack talk. Generally speaking people from Houston despise everything in or from Dallas. When ever a Dallas team plays a Houston team it is a big deal around here.

Another blowout of the Rockets tonight would be awesome. Make sure you stop over and pay a visit to those guys, they will be posting my answers to their questions.

So without further delay here are my questions to The Dreamshake, and what they had to say.

Rockets vs Mavericks preview Rockets vs Mavericks coverage

Before the season began, many would have said that this year would be a disaster for the Rockets. So far however, it has been anything but disastrous. Playing without a "superstar" the Rockets have been very cable of holding their own. What do you believe this teams realistic goals are for this season?

I legitimately thought this team would be a few games over .500. Considering they have played the hardest schedule in the league to date and are 3 games over with 2 games they should have won in those losses, I'm very pleased where they are. Christian wrote a good piece about this today: 25 games into the season. The realistic goals for this team are pretty similar to my few games over .500 scenario: A 5-8 seed in the playoffs, and depending on the match-up a potential upset in the first round but likely no chance to get out of the second.

The Mavericks and Rockets play two completely different styles, the Mavs have always been more of a finesse team relying largely on the jump shot skills of Dirk, and Terry. While the Rockets are a much more physical team that plays with a lot of ball movement and unselfishness. There have always been match up issues for both teams, what are some of the more concerning match up problems for this years Rockets when facing the Mavs?

Jason Terry. I'm almost tempted to just leave it at that, but that wouldn't be fair. Terry absolutely torches the Rockets and it's getting to be personal. Dirk is Dirk and there isn't any team in the league that matches up with him. The rest of it? I really don't know. I wish I did, so I could send a note to Rick Adelman so that the Rockets could fix it. Some of it is that the Mavs are more talented at the upper level and when they are one of the few teams in the league willing to match the Rockets intensity level.

In the first two games of the season series, we have seen both teams at different points of the game shoot unbelievably well. Typically one would say that the defensive effort dropped allowing the other team to get clean looks at the basket. In this case though, on many occasions it has been an individual player just getting extremely hot, and most of the time for the Mavericks it has been Jason Terry a.k.a. "The Rocket Killer". Is there anything the Rockets can do to stop this from happening on Friday?

Terry is a defensive match-up nightmare for the Rockets. There has been no one on the team that can really guard him, and that's saying something because Shane Battier can guard just about anyone. The Rockets theory is to make Terry take the ball out of Dirk and Kidd's hands. Frankly I think it is a terrible idea because Terry has proven it as such. Ideally Trevor Ariza guards him and that makes a difference. He has the lateral and overall quickness to keep up with Terry but we'll see if he has the dedication.

On Tuesday Tracy McGrady made his official return from micro fracture surgery against the Pistons, playing 8 minutes. He then played another 8 minutes on Wednesday against the Nuggets. What is the feeling amongst Rocket fans about T-Mac's return? And will the Rockets try to move McGrady before the deadline? Or are they content to just let him walk after the season?

Among "Rockets fans" those that typically just know the superstars I think people are excited he's back overall. Amongst the diehards I think it is split pretty much down the middle. Everyone wants to see him play though, no matter if you are on the "trade him" or "keep him" bandwagon. Otherwise what's the point? Just cut him or put him on injured list. Might as well see if he can 1. Help the team on the court or 2. Help the team via trade and the only way to do that is for him to play. If there is a good trade he'll get traded, if there isn't, he'll be gone after the season. Daryl Morey will not trade him just to do it.

Looking forward to next season when the Rockets are back at full strength, will this team have to change the way it plays with the return of Yao Ming? Or will this team be in a much better position to utilize his skills?

Sure they'll change it a bit, but Yao runs better than anyone will ever give him credit for. His defense is underrated in every way, just look at the Rockets with him and without him. Now maybe everyone will shut up about it and stop proving how little they know about basketball. Yao's presence in the middle is intimidating and he controls the paint. What's kind of funny is that people try and challenge him because of that idiotic idea of him not being great defensively and it plays right into the Rockets hands.

Mavericks Vs Thunder Highlights

Rockets Vs Nuggets Highlights

The Dream Shake Q&A with Mavs Moneyball

UofTOrange — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 17:07:41 -0000

More photos » by Pat Sullivan - AP

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Here comes another Rockets vs. Mavericks game. Can anyone else wait for a 20 point lead this time in the first quarter that gets blown? Actually, I don't think that could/would happen again, but the Rockets have blown two huge leads this season against the Mavericks already. In anticipation of the game, and hopefully a little payback, we did a Q&A with Mavs Moneyballl and Phillip Baggett:

Check out my answers to their questions over there: http://www.mavsmoneyball.com/2009/12/18/1207348/engaging-the-enemy-the-houston

1. In all seriousness, why does Jason Terry hate me and love to torture my Rockets? The Rockets WANTED him, it's not like they spurned him when he was in Atlanta. Why kill us repeatedly?

In all actuality Jason Terry is no better against the Rockets than he is against the rest of the league. His career ppg is 16.2 vs the Rockets it balloons to 16.5. As a Maverick fan I will tell you it is nice to have a guy on the team that causes so much grief for Rockets fans.

2. The Rockets seem to match up fantastically with the Mavericks this season for about 1 quarter. What about the Mavericks really makes them double digits better than the Rockets? Or in the case of the last two games, 30 points better in the 2nd-4th quarter each game?

I think what has made the Mavs double digits better is pretty simple, DEFENSE, or better yet the lack of the Rockets playing any. I mean the Mavs are shooting 14% better from the field, and almost 20% better from three over their average against the Rockets, that big of a difference cannot just be the Mavs having a good shooting night.

3. Dirk Nowitzki is a phenomenal basketball player. How many years does he have left and why do you peg it at that number?

Dirk says that he is just going to see how things go and how he feels, and when he has had enough then he will shut it down. It is difficult to get a very good feel on Dirk, just because he is such a quiet person, that being said my heart says that next year may be it for him, but my brain says that he could play another six years.

4. How much does Eric Dampier suck? Does it make you cry when the self proclaimed "Best center in the west" cashes his 11.5 million dollars a year?

The last 4 years yes it has made me cry, so far this year absolutely not. Dampier has been very, very good this year, which furthers proves the point that he has the capabilities to be one of the best, unfortunately though he is another one of those players who only plays well when they are trying to get a new contract.

5. Mark Cuban gets a lot of flack for being a whiny owner. I personally think he is by far the best owner in any sport. What do Dallas fans really think about him?

Mark is a whiner and a bit of a butthead on occasion, but he is also the best owner in the NBA and the largest percentages of Mavs fans love him. Like anyone though he has had his moments when people wanted to kill him. Mark Cuban is the reason that this team has won at least 50 games for 9 consecutive seasons, and Maverick fans know that.

Friday Links

Wes Cox — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:42:10 -0000

More photos » by Larry W. Smith - NBAE/Getty Images

6 days ago: OKLAHOMA CITY - DECEMBER 16: Nick Collison #4 of the Oklahoma City Thunder goes for a rebound against Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks during the game at the Ford Center on December 16, 2009 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. (Photo by Larry W. Smith/NBAE via Getty Images)

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Dallas Mavericks guard Terry finds ways to contribute | Eddie Sefko - DMN
"They're double-teaming, both on pick-and-rolls and on pin-downs," coach Rick Carlisle said. "When that happens, he's got to be a facilitator for us and he has to have a level of patience. He's got to stay aggressive to score when the opportunities are there. But when people commit two to him, he's got to drag those guys, and then make the pass leading to a bucket." Terry has found that contributing in other ways, including staying in front of his man on defense, can be equally rewarding as filling up the basket. It also helps that the Mavericks are 19-7 and riding a five-game winning streak as Houston comes to town tonight.

Mavs' road to halfway point: Murderer's Row | Jeff Caplan - ESPNDallas
"The important thing now is even though we’ve won five in a row, is to stay hungry, not let any complacency creep in and try to work to maintain this momentum and carry it forward," Mavs coach Rick Carlisle said. "That’s a challenge in this league. The teams that can do that end up being special teams, and the ones that can’t end up being average or also-rans."

Dallas Basketball - Friday Morning Mavs Donuts: The Indisputable Josh
But here's The Indisputable Josh: This year, the Mavs are a darn-goof 13-6 without him. With him, though, they are 6-1.

Game Recap: Mavericks Drown Out Thunder 100-86

zdgmans — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 04:08:58 -0000

More photos » by ALONZO ADAMS - AP

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The 12-11 Okalahoma City Thunder, who are much more dangerous than their record would indicate, welcome the Dallas Mavericks into their gym for the first time this year. The second youngest team in the NBA likes to get off to a fast start and push the ball in transition whereas the Mavericks look to execute in the half court and push only when there is an opening.

The Thunder present a challenge for any team in the NBA (there are no easy games in this league no matter what anyone thinks). This will be a game of wills and it comes down to which team executes their game plan better.

Game as a Whole:

Dirk Nowitzki recovers from his previous off night to help push the Mavericks over the hump tonight. He ended up besting Kevin Durant all night (Durant is currently third in the league in scoring) both in points and on the boards. While Dirk deservers almost all of the credit for the win, Shawn Marion and Erick Dampier both turned in excellent performances to compliment everything that Dirk was doing.

While the five-game winning streak is great, the Mavericks still have a few things that they will need to improve on if they hope to continue rolling. Jason Terry’s defense is just as much a liability for the team as Barea’s. Tonight, he was consistently getting blown by, and fouling in an attempt to make up for his defensive shortcomings. Too many second chance points given up by the Mavericks kept the Thunder in the game for most of fourth quarter.

1st Quarter

11:37, Barea kicks of his night by missing a three-point jumper. Are we going to see the Barea that dominated the Hornets?
10:48, Barea redeems himself by drawing an offensive foul against Russell Westbrook. If he even slows Westbrook down a little bit the Mavericks should be able to pull out a win.
10:26, What is this, the Barea three point shooting clinic? Let’s get somebody else a shot shall we?
8:26, You absolutely cannot give up 2 offensive rebounds in one sequence to the Okalahoma City Thunder. They are going to make you pay. The Mavericks woes on the offensive boards continue.
Shawn Marion is looking really active tonight. You won’t see his contribution in the stats sheet night in and night out but he is definitely making his presence felt for the Mavericks.
7:20, Is it me or is Barea taking way too many shots tonight? I know the coaches told him to stay aggressive but this seems a bit over-aggressive.
3:59, Shawn Marion block on Kevin Durant. Mavericks will need more of that if they want to take the lead in this game.
3:39, Josh Howard comes in for the first time tonight. Let’s see whether Howard can give us a spark off of the bench.
3:24, Definitely dodged a bullet on this offensive sequence. One offensive rebound and two missed three pointers for the Thunder isn’t the best outcome but I will take it.
2:20, Shawn Marion in for Dirk? Marion and Howard on the floor at the same time? This is interesting.
0:03, Looks like this lineup has effectively tied the game. Thanks Shawn Marion and Jason Terry.

2nd Quarter

11:38, Like the hustle from Josh Howard (almost back to his old form) but you have to put one shot in if you get your own offensive rebound.
10:52, Drew Gooden misses a 12-foot jumper (shouldn’t be taking those) and then makes up for it by fouling at the other end. That’s not going to put your team in a position to win.
10:03, Dirk misses a jumper. Color me surprised that the Mavericks are only down by three at this point.
9:07, Drew Gooden cleaning up the garbage on a missed layup attempt by Barea. This is really what Gooden should stick to, not jump shots.
7:33, Josh Howard seems to be taking his ride on the off night train. Glad to see him make an 18-foot basket at this point in the game.
6:07-5:37, Welcome to the Drew Gooden show! Dunks (Jason Terry assists), defensive rebound, and then draws a shooting foul. That’s how you start to take over a game.
Shawn Marion used to be an okay three-point shooter when he was at Phoenix. When is he going to start setting up for some three’s again?
3:45-3:42, How is it that in the span of 3 seconds you can have two offensive rebounds gathered in by two different players and they both end up missing the put back? Not going to name names, as it is embarrassing.
1:54, Erick Dampier makes a layup (Kidd gets another assist) and the Mavericks are now only down two points.
:22, Dirk out of the timeout is always a great play. I wonder how many times they draw up the play specifically for Dirk?

3rd Quarter

10:20, The fade away is back. Dirk, it’s looking like you need put the Mavericks on your back tonight after the poor game you had the other day. Comes back and gets fouled on the next possession.
The Thunder are another team who have a record that doesn’t tell the full story. They have a pretty dangerous starting five, even if they are pretty young.
Mavericks are 2 of 9 from behind the 3 point line right now.
9:06, Great hand-off by Kidd to Dampier, but he couldn’t finish the play. Kidd, nice old school moves going off of the playe’rs back to get the ball inbounds.
Dampier makes both of his free throws. Great when he does that.
8:37, Mavericks only down 3 and Kidd takes a three pointer off of a screen. Didn’t even set his feet. If he hit those all the time, wow.
7:21, Dirk really looks awesome when he takes it to the basket. He really should mix his game up more and continue to do that.
5:53, Dampier looks like Dwight Howard rolling to the basket. Takes a lob from Kidd and banks it off the glass before touching the ground. Sadly, basket doesn’t count as Kidd was fouled on the pass.
4:08, Josh Howard has a great turn-around jumper. That was his best shot tonight.
Mavericks are going on a run. Dirk hits a baseline jump shot and then, after a defensive stop, Josh goes coast-to-coast for a layup. Thunder cannot be happy with that.
2:00, Dirk trailing for three is the Mavericks new go-to play. I really like how people haven’t figured out that you need to run out to the three-point line and cover him.
:22.9, Marion takes it hard to the basket to put the Mavericks up by 4. Weren’t they just up by 7 not even a minute ago?

4th Quarter

11:33, Starting off the quarter by getting the Thunder into foul trouble. Yes please. Mavericks are really fighting for rebounds now.
10:50, Gooden tries to put it up against two defenders under the basket. Bad choice.
I can’t believe the Thunder are the number one free throw shooting team in the league.
Shot clock violation. Kidd needs to be back in the game. Tied 71-71.
Mavericks have turned it over in each of their last three possessions. The Thunder now lead the game by two.
8:18, Time for Drew Gooden to sit down and Erick Dampier back in the game. Offensive rebound with a put back "and 1". Come on.
7:55, In case of emergency, let Nowitzki go glass. 2-point banker is good.
7:33, Howard ties it on two free throws.
5:29, Dirk hits another 2 point shot to put the Mavericks up five. Their interior defense falls apart on the next possession.
4:43, Offensive rebound for Dampier, who then gets fouled. Dallas needed these foul shots to slow the game down. This will allow their defense to get back and get set on the next play.
4:05, Howard may have hit a dagger three. Mavericks get a block on the Thunder’s next possession.
2:18, Dampier takes a perfect pass from Dirk at the three-point line (after a shot fake). This is going really well now.
1:43, Correction, Dirk hits the dagger three. The Mavericks are officially taking over the 4^th quarter (something they normally don’t do).
The Thunder have absolutely fallen apart at the end of the game. I guess this is what you get from a young team? Mavericks are up 12 with less than 40 seconds to go.
Mavericks win 100-86.

Some Choice Statistics

More clutch play from Dirk, 55-55 on Free Throws in the Fourth Quarter/OT this year.
Shawn Marion and Drew Gooden both end up coming out of this game with -7 in the +/- even though they had valuable contributions.
Dallas is currently the third best free throw shooting team in the league at around 80%.

Closing Thoughts:

The Mavericks haven’t been known as "closers" but after a tight game against the Thunder it was a great sign to see them close the game out with a big run to completely shut the door on a comeback. The winning streak continues even though the team is still a work in progress.

Game 24 Preview: Oklahoma City vs. Dallas

Zorgon — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 22:03:40 -0000

More photos » by Tony Gutierrez - AP

Hey man! Easy!

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This also counts as an open thread, so feel free to post your thoughts during the game here.

Time: 7:00 PM Central Standard Time

Place: The Ford Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

TV: KSBI-TV, Fox Sports Southwest, ESPN

Radio: WWLS The Sports Animal (98.1)

Enemy Blog(s): Mavs Moneyball, That Two Man Game

Backstory: As a team that's not even one and a half years old, we don't have many rivalries. In fact, to fans in Oklahoma City, I'd say we have 0 rivalries. The only time they'll take a game seriously is when the team we're facing is really good, or when the Thunder are on National TV. To fans nationally, the thunder might have a rivalry going with the TrailBlazers, but to fans in Oklahoma City, the rivalry is irrelevant. In fact, I don't think I can even remember the games against the TrailBlazers, except through a recap I read.

But I think the closest we're getting to a rivalry is the one with our neighbors to the South, the Dallas Mavericks. Some were gunning for a Denver rivalry, but after last nights snorefest combined with the fact that only one game was really good makes for a dud of a rivalry. The Mavericks, on the other hand, have provided an entertaining game every time we've met them. Our first game against them was a close loss, which was one of the first indications that last season's Thunder weren't going to be the worst team in NBA history. Then, we had a close overtime loss in Dallas, and finally, a victory in Oklahoma City through a rally of some of our worst players. No Green? No Durant? No problem, just have Kyle Weaver go off on them!

But, this season, the games actually have meaning for both teams. We are both gunning for good seeds in the Western playoffs. The Mavericks have been doing a lot better, but what's to say that we don't already have their number? The players may have changed, but the coach and the strategy is the same.

Below: Matchups, Prediction

Matchups:

Center: Nenad Krstic vs. Erick Dampier

Erick Dampier isn't as young as he used to be. In fact, he's at the ripe old age of 34. But he's always proved to be the perfect compliment to Dirk Nowitski. Whereas Dirk is focused on offense, Dampier provides the yin to his yang by focusing on defense and inside battles. Even though he's facing a light weight in Nenad Krstic, I wouldn't expect Dampier to go above 15 Points or so, though. You can only set up so many plays for him, but expect him to really own the rebounding department,

Power Forward: Jeff Green vs. Dirk Nowitski

Jeff Green has never done well against big players, but Dirk Nowitski isn't your typical 7 footer. He'll get the same numbers as Dwight Howard, sure. But he'll do it through sheer size and outside shooting prowess, rather than bullying his way into dunks. This might open up opportunities for Jeff Greens quickness to outclass Dirk offensively, but I still wouldn't bet on a big game from him. The Dallas frontcourt wins by a longshot.

Small Forward: Kevin Durant vs. Shawn Marion

Shawn Marion is your typical above-average small forward. He'll get you just over 12 points, grab a couple of rebounds, and dish an assist. But he's no match for Durant. He'll produce his usual game offensively, but Durant will put up far better numbers.

Shooting Guard: Thabo Sefolosha vs. Jose Juan Barea

Jose Juan Barea is the only member of the Mavericks starting five to not have played pro-basketball in the 90s. Still, that doesn't make him any worse than his counterparts. He's known as a quick combo guard who can light it up on occasion for bunches of points. Unfortunately for him, he's going up against one of the best defenders in the NBA, and he won't have much success.

Point Guard: Russell Westbrook vs. Jason Kidd

This isn't your father's Jason Kidd. He can't defend or score as well as he used to, but, luckily for the Mavericks, his lightning quick passing skills and his ability to rebound are still there. He'll definitely out-assist Westbrook tonight, but I have a feeling Westbrook will put more points on him. It should be interesting to see the old guard vs. the new.

Battle of the Benches:

The Mavericks, as always, have an incredibly deep and talented bench, including the likes of Drew Gooden, Jason Terry, and Rodrigue Beaubois, who is way better and awesomer than B.J. Mullens. Since we're still without a Point Guard, I'll give them the win here.

Coaching and Intangibles:

Both teams are equally rested and have almost their full roster intact, but the Mavericks are at home, so they have the advantage.

Bottom Line:

This is the last game of the "Deadly Trio" that we lined up, with games against the Cavaliers and the Nuggets prior. If we can win this one, I'd say it was a successful 3 game stretch. But if we can't dial the Mavericks number again tonight, I'll have serious doubts about our playoff chances. And yes, I said the P-Word! If the Thunder can get some production out of Green and make sure Westbrook doesn't put up too many bad shots, I'd say we have a good shot at winning this thing.

Prediction: Oklahoma City 112, Dallas 110 (OT)

How do you think the game will go? Vote in the Poll!

And, again, feel free to drop any comments you might have during, before, or after the game below. I'll be in the Ford Center cheering the teams on, but I'll be back to write a recap later tonight. Go Thunder!

Poll

Who's going to win tonight?

IC Cold Links: More Minutes For Dunleavy Create Another Wrinkle With Playing Rotation

Tom Lewis — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:57:35 -0000

More photos » by John Raoux - AP

Mike Dunleavy is not only back, but making an impact for the Pacers. Now what?

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Since his return to the court, Mike Dunleavy has quickly established himself as a key player regardless of when he plays, and with Danny Granger out maximizing the available minutes for Dunleavy is critical.

So, suddenly (miraculously?) the Pacers have the enjoyable task of trying to figure out how to best use Mike Dunleavy. Personally, I'd love to see Dunleavy continue coming off the bench, especially when Granger returns, to help balance out the rotations, playing a role similar to Jason Terry in Dallas. He could still play the same amount of minutes and finish games.

I realize Jim O'Brien wants to start the best players available and with Granger out, it makes more sense to start Dunleavy, although bringing him off the bench would also make it easier to manage his minutes since last night that was obviously a problem.

So how should the Pacers use Dunleavy?

After the jump, several links of interest from last night's game.

AP: Howard powers Magic to 106-98 win over Pacers
PACERS: Inside the Game: Pacers at Magic
Bruno's Inside the Game report has all of the numbers of note from the game and there were plenty.
Pacers can't contain inevitable
Mike Wells reports on the late Orlando run wiping out the Pacers' early success.
Orlando Magic rally to beat Indiana Pacers at home
Brian Schmitz reports on the Magic rallying to take down the Pacers.
Orlando Magic 106, Indiana Pacers 98 - Third Quarter Collapse
Ben Q Rock recaps the Magic escaping with a win last night.
Pacers Notebook: Dunleavy makes 1st start of season
In the notebook, Wells touches on Dunleavy exceeding his extended minutes limit. The free throw differential and Jeff Foster's reaction to Jonathan Bender's return to the NBA.
Jones or Rush?
Wells blogs about the starting lineup, wondering if Dahntay Jones will be starting for Brandon Rush soon, assuming Mike Dunleavy remains in the starting lineup.
Vince Carter leads team in scoring after missing practice, shootaround with stomach ailment
Tania Ganguli reports on the Vince Carter and the Orlando Magic putting things together just in time to beat the Pacers.
NBA 'Watchability' Scale: Ranking Every Team Based On Entertainment, Not Talent
Well, the Pacers were definitely watchable for most of the game last night. They also fared better than I expected in Mike Prada's rankings of teams simply by their watchability.