Mavericks vs. Blazers: Game 21 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (12-8) at Portland Trail Blazers (17-3)
Dec. 7, 9:00 at the Moda Center
TV: FSSW, NBATV
Line: Blazers by 5

2012-13 Matchups
Nov.5 at Dallas
Mavs 114 Blazers 91
Jan. 29 at Portland
Blazers 106 Mavs 104
Feb. 6 at Dallas
Mavs 105 Blazers 99
Apr. 7 at Portland
Mavs 96 Blazers 91

All-Time Series
Blazers 74 Mavs 62

Team Rankings
Mavs
Offense: 6th (108.2)
Defense: 23rd (106.3)
Blazers
Offense: 1st (111.5)
Defense: 22nd (106.1)

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Jose Calderon
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Shawn Marion
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Samuel Dalembert
Blazers
PG: Damian Lillard
SG: Wesley Matthews
SF: Nicolas Batum
PF: Lamarcus Aldridge
C: Robin Lopez

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 21.6
RPG: Blair, 7.6
APG: Ellis, 5.8
PER: Nowitzki, 23.0
Blazers
PPG: Aldridge, 23.5
RPG: Aldridge, 9.7
APG: Lillard, 5.7
PER: Aldridge, 22.4

Notes
After going 5 games without scoring 20 points, Dirk Nowitzki has scored over 20 in 3 straight games. Counting the playoffs the Mavs have won 7 of their last 9 against Portland with the 2 losses coming by 2 points each. The Blazers boast the league's best offense, and rank in the 5 in numerous offensive categories including points per game, 3 pointers made, 3 point %, ft% and offensive rebounds. Blazers coach and former Mavs assistant Terry Stotts was named Western Conference Coach of the Month for November, as he lead Portland to a 13-2 record that included a 11 game winning streak.