The Dallas Mavericks held their lone preseason game at American Airlines Center on Saturday night against the Charlotte Hornets.
The game served as another opportunity for the Mavericks to test their new offensive schemes against another team, but it also served as Cooper Flagg’s unofficial debut in his new home arena.
The Mavericks rookie showcased more of his versatility and left fans longing for more as he finished with 11 points, three rebounds and four assists in Saturday’s 120-116 loss to the Hornets. Dallas dropped to 1-1 in preseason play with two games left.
Here are a few takeaways from Saturday’s loss:
Flagg’s dynamic first half
Flagg prioritized playmaking from the opening tip, similar to his start in Monday’s game against Oklahoma City. The rookie forward had a steal and had the opportunity to attack the basket in transition, but chose to pass to Klay Thompson in the corner for an open 3-pointer. On the very next play, Flagg penetrated into the paint and threw a lob to Anthony Davis. Once his teammates were involved, Flagg became more aggressive and looked for his own shot. His most impressive highlight was a midrange fadeaway, which he was able to get to because of a behind-the-back dribble that created separation between him and LaMelo Ball.
Lively for 3?
Dereck Lively II attempted his first 3-pointer of the preseason Saturday. He had an open look from the top of the key, but he missed with the ball going slightly to the left of the rim. He didn’t attempt another 3 for the rest of the game, instead relying on finishing inside the paint. The third-year center displayed his ability to finish with reverse layups and jump hooks, an area he’s developed through his first two seasons in the NBA. Lively finished with 10 points, six rebounds, two steals and two blocks.
Rebounding woes
The Mavericks were beaten not only in the final score, but also on the boards. Charlotte outrebounded Dallas, 54-37. The Mavericks gave up 15 offensive rebounds, which led to 20 second chance points.
Injuries
Before the game, Jason Kidd revealed the reason Dante Exum has been inactive throughout training camp and the preseason. The veteran guard has been dealing with soreness and irritation in his right knee and the team is taking a cautious approach with his recovery.
“It’s delayed his preparation for the start of the season so we’re going to take a long-term view,” Kidd said. “He’s going to be out for a little bit.”
Brandon Williams (hamstring), Daniel Gafford (ankle), Caleb Martin and Dalano Banton were also sidelined for Saturday’s game.
A familiar face
A couple of former Mavericks sat on the visitors bench on Saturday, including Josh Green, Grant Williams and veteran point guard Spencer Dinwiddie.
Williams and Green were sidelined, but Dinwiddie played 19 minutes and finished with six points, three rebounds and four assists. Dinwiddie signed with the Hornets during the offseason, adding experience to the Hornets’ young roster. Before the game, Hornets coach Charles Lee lauded Dinwiddie’s vocal leadership.
“It’s been a joy having Spencer join our group,” Lee said. “He obviously has great experiences in this league. He’s been on some playoff teams. He’s helped build a foundation of a young group into a playoff contender in Brooklyn his first stint there, so it’s been nice for him to just bring that added experience to our group and kind of be able to have a vocal leadership aspect.
“I also think that his professional habits are what our guys need to continue to see and he models a lot of the behaviors that we want from our younger players.”
Story by Mike Curtis, The Dallas Morning News.
