With his team's back against the wall and his play so far in the series so underwhelming he was benched for an entire half, Caron Butler picked a good time to remind everybody that he can still be an all-star level player. If he keeps it up the this season has a good chance to continue.
Led by Butler's career playoff high of 35 points, the Mavs blew out San Antonio by a 103-81 score Tuesday night. The win puts the series at 3-2 in favor of the Spurs with game six now set for Thursday night in San Antonio.
Butler, who also had 11 rebounds was on his game from the start as the Mavs grabbed a 17 point first half lead which was cut to only 7 at halftime. The Mavs though came out strong in the third going on a 8-0 run to begin the half and were never threatened again.
A big game was not needed from Dirk but he still added 15 points and 9 rebounds. Jason Kidd had 10 points, 7 assists and 7 rebounds in easily his best game since game one. Brendan Haywood was added to the starting lineup and responded with 8 points, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks.
The Mavs clamped down on the defensive end holding the Spurs to only 36% shooting. Tim Duncan only scored 11 on 3-9 shooting while Manu Ginobili had 7 points on 2-7 from the field.
If Dallas can bring this level of play and intensity in game 6, then there will be a good chance for a game 7 back in Dallas on Saturday with a team that is much more than a one man show it was in games 3 and 4.
Looks like the x factor is Dampier.
ReplyDeleteGK314, you are just lucky that they won so you aren't to blame for their demise
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