We will not say ‘now yes’, but it could be. Kristaps Porzingis’s contribution since joining the Mavericks has been intermittent. Injuries have never allowed him to get into rhythm and the demand for a first-rate companion for Luka Doncic did not give him any respite either. Has this context changed? Maybe.
Although he has already missed five games through injury this season, the Latvian interior is finally giving what is expected of him on the pitch. Jason Kidd showed his confidence months ago and games like last night (29 points and 11 rebounds against Denver) are certainly the way; especially since Dallas does not want to squeeze Luka Doncic excessively, who against those of Colorado contributed 23 points, 11 assists and 8 rebounds. It is this collaboration that they want to implement in Texas, and if it occurs with triumphs against teams of the size of the Nuggets, then all the better.
“Kristaps Porzingis was great on both sides of the court. He performs well as a ‘five’, but we don’t want to have him in that context for 40 minutes into the season. It’s too many minutes, “says Jason Kidd about his player, who is averaging 23.2 points and 7.2 rebounds since he returned from injury.
Although the victory ended up falling on the local side, it was not easy at all. During the third quarter the Nuggets came to dominate by 13 points and it was not until the last when the Mavs were able to prevail. With an excellent Tim Hardaway Jr., who achieved 13 of his 19 points in such period, they achieved a favorable partial that placed them up to 10 points (98-88). From that moment they knew how to handle the advantage until the final 111-101.
Jokic, at his level
The current NBA MVP continues to give away exhibits; yes, some without award. Against the Mavericks he went up to 35 points (the highest score of the season), captured 16 rebounds and distributed 6 assists. His level is beyond any doubt, but the team has some offensive problems, especially because the long absence of Jamal Murray has recently been joined by that of Michael Porter Jr., whose return date is unknown.
The accompaniment for the Serbian center was limited to 17 points and 8 assists from Monte Morris, as well as 14 points and 7 rebounds from Aaron Gordon. Despite the loss, they remain fourth in the West at 9-5, just one spot behind the Mavericks (9-4).
(Photograph by Ronald Martinez / Getty Images)