This game really shows the importance of rim protection. It was non existent until Maxi came in. Maxi took control of things inside (and on offense with Brunson leading there). Its incredible how blocking can impact an opponent. Its really mental part of the game. Once Spurs knew they couldn't access the paint and score at will - In this very moment they suddenly couldn't do anything, even outside of the paint. They were mentally impacted, forced to play outisde the paint and the lead getting narrower on top of that was the pressure they could not handle. And then the momentum changed, this elevated the Mavs other players to believe in the game and play more D. I don't think that another play is more exciting for me to watch than the block. If i recall correctly in games 2 seasons ago where Maxi and KP were patrolling the paint and on top of their defensive game (both fully healthy) and blocking and contesting shots, we were nearly unbeatable in those games. Since then and until now, they were not fully healthy and in shape and it has really showed a huge effect.
Of course there are other parts to this that contributed. Brunson was amazing on both ends of the floor as well. But the blocks, that's what sets the mental blockade in an opponent, more than anything else perhaps. They got afraid of entering the paint. From that moment on, Spurs didn't stand much chance.
Of course there are other parts to this that contributed. Brunson was amazing on both ends of the floor as well. But the blocks, that's what sets the mental blockade in an opponent, more than anything else perhaps. They got afraid of entering the paint. From that moment on, Spurs didn't stand much chance.
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