The Dallas Mavericks started the series off with a 2-0 lead and have allowed a feisty Trailblazers team to even the series up at 2-2. The Mavericks came out in game 4 and took care of business…up until the 4th qtr. Portland cut a 23 pt deficate to win the game 84-82 with the help of Brandon Roy.
In order for Dallas to win series, they are going to have to close games up, and that involves playing good defense and attacking the basket to draw fouls in the 4th qtr. If you research the stats from this series the only mav to attack the basket in the 4th qtr has been Dirk Nowitzki, and that was in games 1,2, and 3.
Dallas lead all stats in game 4 except for total points and FG percentage, but the mavs shot 7 more FG’s than Portland and made 2 more, so that explains the lower percentage. Rick Carslisle will also need to keep getting great production from his bench. Jet Terry, JJ Barea, and Peja Stojakovic. I’m surprised that Corey Brewer has not seen any playing time, he played great at the end of the year and I think he would provide a boost for Dallas, especially in the 4th qtr.
Now that Portland has played their 2 consecutive home games, the mavs have 2 straight home games and the odds will be in Dallas favor. With the home crowd cooking and a long plane ride home to think about Game 4, the Mavericks should be well prepared to come out and Dominate Portland. Look for Dallas to put it on them from start to finish. If Dallas loses game 5, we might be watching Portland in the next round. Sometimes momentum is too much for any team.
Game 5 will be on NBA TV and TXA21 Dallas starting at 7:30. For those of you who do not have either of these stations you can follow the game on yahoo sports or ESPN.com
