Game 4: Dallas Mavericks (2-1) vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (2-1)

[omahen]

Always funny to go through game thread after the game. Some of you guys have very short memories. Luka had monster (in a positive way) starts to the season last two seasons, but then he was worn out due to overusage somewhere around All star break. I prefer he starts a bit rusty and then be his best self when it matters most. I wouldn't say he is out of shape, but he is obviously not his best self yet. I am fine with that.

The team is very good this season. Deep and first time I have a feeling they don't need Luka to do "everything". He is playing heavy minutes, but I think his workload is much lighter. Still shoots a lot, but doesn't need to create every offense. His shots mostly come quickly, without spending "15 seconds" to create a position. For comparison, Mavs had 90 FGA on average last season. They are at 96 this one so far. I agree some shots are tough and perhaps not necessary, but the goal is to have his best version in the playoffs. At that time Mavs will need him to make those kind of shots and if that is what it takes, I will live with it. This is why I will not judge before the season end.

Refs (at least some of them) had really taken a grudge on Luka and for sure he has some guilt to it with his complaining. It seems to me the criteria is much different for Luka than for other stars. I think he got some tough no calls last two games while (for example) Edwards was constantly at the line. Also the two technical fouls this season were very quick whistles. But, we all know this is an area of the game he needs to improve, although I can understand his frustrations.

I am a bit surprised SD basically took all Hardy minutes after the first game. We knew team was deep and getting minutes for everyone will be difficult. I think Exum will need to be awesome to get any, otherwise I could easily see him relegated to end of bench after last playoffs and his newest injury.