One-tenth into the season, the Mavericks can be evaluated either through glass-half-full or half-empty optics. In other words, despite angst among fans, statistical dissection by reporters and Kristaps Porzingis’ five-game absence, Dallas is pretty much where it wanted to be — record-wise, if not aesthetically. Three quarters into the season’s third game, Oct. 26 against Houston, Porzingis departed with the back issue and hasn’t played since. Assuming Porzingis does return Saturday, this two-game homestand is an important chance to gain traction offensively while remaining in the West’s upper-tier. After these two games, Dallas plays six of its next seven on the road, including at 6-2 Chicago, two games at reigning Western Conference champion Phoenix and two against the Clippers.

Source: Los Angeles Times November 06, 2021 00:19 UTC