12-25-2024, 05:16 PM
(12-25-2024, 05:06 PM)ThisIStheYear Wrote: Well the Mavs showed some fight so not embarrassing. The problem is just the record is pretty mediocre compared to where they should be this late into Luka’s career. Luka still hasn’t been on a truly good regular season team, though he’s carried them to good playoff performances a couple of times. This is looking like another midd regular season.
I think they’d have it in them to get into the high 50s, maybe even hit the 60 win mark. But the nonstop injuries from game 1 are absolutely killing them. They’re on pace to win 51-52 games but it would clearly be less than what they’re capable of Imo.
The injuries are one thing but looking back the decision to start Gafford over Lively early on probably also cost them a few games. Harsh but impact-wise I really don’t think it’s close. They have started increasing Lively’s minutes right now, I hope it stays that way.