PLAYOFF ROUND 2 GAME 2: DAL (0-2) vs. PHX (2-0)| 109-129 loss

[Smitty]

The play that will win the Mavs this series, is the pick and roll. Phoenix are constantly covering the big guy and preventing the rim rolling and covering the perimeter, in particular Ayton covers Powell and perimeter defenders are not doubling Luka. Ayton actually leaves Luka alone. Luka needs to keep making the floater/short jump shot, instead of trying to pass it to perimeter. It is the floater they are giving away for free. Luka I believe has figured this out and will adjust for the rest of series. In case they counter with Ayton stepping up on Luka, he will have Powell free at the rim. Or if any double team comes from perimeter, then Luka will pass it to the perimeter.

No doubt that Mavs will look at this and identify the issue and the counter. This will also open more Brunsons game, because when Mavs do this, then the perimeter defenders will need to come inside to Luka.

I think this is the key for transforming these series. Luka needs to keep shooting that floater when they give it, and they are doing that essentially every pick and roll with Luka and Powell. Luka has been good in making these shots, but he doesnt take them every time, he is trying too much to involve the perimeter players. Just keep making that floater until Suns need to adjust. This will completely transform this series, mark it down.

It's refreshing to log on here and see at least one poster talking about this year and not next... PHX, the best team in the NBA, held home court like they should. They are no doubt an incredible team and honestly as a fan of basketball, it's nice to see. I don't know if the Mavs will win, but spotting the suns 9 points on the road in both games isn't going to cut it moving forward. There has to be changes to the starting lineup, for that reason alone.