Mavericks vs. Nets: Game 61 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (39-21) vs. Brooklyn Nets (23-33)
Sat. Feb. 28, 7:30  at the AAC
TV: FSSW, NBALP
Line: Mavs by
 
2014-15 Matchups
Jan. 5 at Brooklyn
Mavs 96 Nets 88 (OT)

All-Time Series
Mavs 39 Nets 28

Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 108.3 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.3 (13th)
Point Differential: +4.9
Nets
Offense: 100.4 (24th)
Defense: 104.3 (22nd)
Point Differential: -3.3

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Richard Jefferson
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Nets
PG: Deron Williams
SG: Markel Brown
SF: Alan Anderson
PF: Joe Johnson
C: Mason Plumlee

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 19.5
RPG: Chandler, 11.7
APG: Rondo, 6.2
PER: Chandler, 20.9
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.3
Nets
PPG: Johnson, 15.7
RPG: Plumlee, 6.8
APG: Williams, 6.4
PER: Lopez, 20.0
Win Shares: Plumlee, 4.0

Of Note

• The Mavs will have Tyson Chanlder (hip) and Rajon Rondo (suspension) back in the lineup. However Chandler Parsons will missed his fourth straight game with a sprained ankle.
• A win would give the Mavericks a perfect 10-0 record against the Atlantic Division this year.
• In the last two games, J.J. Barea has 26 points, 10 assists and shot 11-18 from the field in 49 minutes.
• The Nets are one of 5 teams who are within one game of each other for the East's final playoff spot.
• The Mavs have won 4 straight home games while allowing only an average of 88.8 points in those game.

Hawks 104 Mavericks 87: Game 60 Recap

The Lead
Shorthanded Mavs strong start goes for naught, as the Hawks run away with things in the second half.

Box Score 

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Ellis, 19
Rebounds: James, 11
Assists: Barea, 7
+-: Powell, Smith, Felton, +4
Hawks
Points: Schroder, 17
Rebounds: Millsap, Horford, 8
Assists: Horford, 6
+-: Korver, +28

Game Ball
Dennis Schroder
17 points, 4 assists, 3-5 3PT

X-Factor
Bernard James
7 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks

Goat Horns
Al-Farouq Aminu
2 points, 1-7 FG, 0-4 3PT, 4 TO

Play of the Game
Kyle Korver hit a open three off of a offensive rebound to give the Hawks a 60-57 lead as part of a 13-0 Atlanta run. 

Stat of the Game
The Mavericks shot a miserable 5-31 on threes, including going 0-14 in the second half.

Of Note

• The Mavs played the game without four key players. Rajon Rondo was suspended for conduct detrimental to team after his shouting match with Rick Carlisle in Tuesday's game. Tyson Chandler was out with a left hip injury. Chandler Parsons sat out his third straight with a sprained ankle and Amare Stoudemire sat out the second half of the back-to-back to rest.
• After Dallas scored 34 points in the first quarter they were held below 20 in the three remaining quarters scoring 19, 15 and 19.
• The loss was the Mavericks first all season on the road to a East team after 13 wins. They had not lost at an East team since Feb. 11, 2014 in Charlotte.
• Dirk was held to 4 points on 2-7 shooting as he failed to reach double-digit scoring for the second time in three games after scoring at least 10 in every previous game.
• In a statistical rarity the Mavs recorded 0 steals for the game.
• The game was almost postponed because of a snowstorm that was due to hit Atlanta on Wednesday night. The decision to play wasn't made until after 2:00 Central time.

Grades
Nowitzki: D
Jefferson: C
James: A
Ellis: A-
Barea; A-
Aminu: D
Villanueva: C-
Harris: C+
Powell: B+
Smith: B-
Felton: C

Quote of Note
"I’m disappointed with the result but not with the effort.”
Rick Carlisle

They Tweeted It

To pay homage to @netw3rk: Carlisle: Ray, you ready? Felton: Absolutely! I can go o— Carlisle: Hold the clipboard.
— Bryan Gutierrez (@BallinWithBryan) February 26, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (39-21) get two days off before hosting the Brooklyn Nets (23-32) on Saturday night.

Mavericks vs. Hawks: Game 60 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (39-20 at Atlanta Hawks (44-12)
Wed. Feb. 25, 6:30 at Philips Arena
TV: FSSW, NBALP
Line: Hawks by 7

2014-15 Matchups 
Dec. 22 at Dallas
Hawks 105 Mavs 102

 
All-Time Series
Hawks 35 Mavs 32

Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 108.5 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.2 (13th)
Point Differential: +5.2
Hawks
Offense: 106.6 (6th)
Defense: 100.2 (7th)
Point Differential: +6.1

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Richard Jefferson
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Hawks
PG: Jeff Teague
SG: Kyle Korver
SF: DeMarre Carroll
PF: Paul Millsap
C: Al Horford

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 19.5
RPG: Chandler, 11.7
APG: Rondo, 6.2
PER: Chandler, 20.8
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.4
Hawks
PPG: Millsap, 16.9
RPG: Millsap, 8.1
APG: Teague, 7.3
PER: Teague, 21.7
Win Shares: Horford, 6.5


Of Note

• The Mavericks put their 13-0 record against the East on the road on the line.
• Jeff Teague is questionable for the Hawks with an illness.
• In six games as a starter this season, Richard Jefferson is averaging 11.8 points and 6.0 rebounds and shooting .511% from the field and 50% on threes.
• Since winning 19 games in a row, the Hawks are 4-4 in their last 8 games.
• Since losing to Golden St. on Feb. 5, the Mavs have the #1 defensive rating in the league at 93.8.

Mavericks 99 Raptors 92: Game 59 Recap

The Lead
Harris and Barea key a second half comeback, as the Mavericks win again against one of the East's best.

Box Score 

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Ellis, 20
Rebounds: Aminu, 12
Assists: Harris, 5
+-: Nowitzki, Chandler, +10
Raptors
Points: DeRozan, 18
Rebounds: Valanciunas, 9
Assists: Lowry, 6
+-: J. Johnson, +6

Game Ball
Devin Harris
14 points, 5 assists, 4 steals, 5-10 FG

X-Factor
J.J. Barea
13 points, 3 assists, 5-8 FG, 3-4 3PT

Goat Horns
Kyle Lowry
11 points, 4-15 FG, 2-9 3PT

Play of the Game
J.J. Barea hit a three 1:07 into the 4th quarter to give the Mavs a 79-77 lead, their first lead since it was 21-19 with 3:41 left in the first quarter.

Stat of the Game
The Mavs defense held the Raptors star backcourt of Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan to a combined 11-36 from the field.

Of Note

• Rajon Rondo got into a heated argument with Rick Carlisle in the third quarter after being removed from the game during a timeout. He would not return to the game, as the Mavs rallied without him.
• The Mavs outrebounded Toronto 40-37, the third straight game they have won the battle of the boards.
• Richard Jefferson had another produtive outing with 11 points as he  replaces the injured Chandler Parsons in the starting lineup.
• The Mavericks bench was extremely productive as the foursome of Harris, Barea, Aminu and Stoudemire combined for 42 points, 19 rebounds and 8 assists.
• At 39-20 the Mavericks are 19 games over .500 for the first since the end of the 2010-11 season.

Grades
Nowitzki: B+
Jefferson: B+
Chandler: B
Ellis: A-
Rondo: D
Aminu: A
Harris: A
Stoudemrie: B
Barea: A

Quote of Note
"We won the game, but stuff like that is never good. It's unfortunate, but it does happen. It's how the team responds, it's how the team moves forward, how both sides move forward and make the best out of it."
Dirk on the Rondo-Carlisle dustup

They Tweeted It

JJ Barea is having basketball sex right now!!!!!!!
— Jeff Wade (@SkinWade) February 25, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (39-20) go from playing the team with the second best record in the East, to the team with the best record when they face the Hawks (44-12) in Atlanta tomorrow night.

Mavericks vs. Raptors: Game 59 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (38-20) vs. Toronto Raptors (37-19)
Tues. Feb. 24, 7:30 at the AAC
TV: FSSW, NBALP
Line: Mavs by 4

2014-15 Matchups
Nov. 28 at Toronto
Mavs 106 Raptors 102

All-Time Series
Mavs 23 Raptors 13


Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 108.7 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.4 (14th)
Point Differential: +5.2
Raptors
Offense: 108.1 (4th)
Defense: 103.5 (16th)
Point Differential: +4.6

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Richard Jefferson
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Raptors
PG: Kyle Lowry
SG: DeMar DeRozan
SF: James Johnson
PF: Amir Johnson
C: Jonas Valanciunas

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 19.5
RPG: Chandler, 11.8
APG: Rondo, 6.3
PER: Chandler, 21.0
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.3
Raptors
PPG: Lowry, 18.3
RPG: Valanciunas, 8.6
APG: Lowry, 7.2
PER: Valanciunas, Williams, 20.2
Win Shares:Lowry, 6.2

Of Note

• Chandler Parsons is out for a second straight game of at least three with a sprained left ankle.
• The Mavericks will play the top two games in the East (Toronto and Atlanta) in back-to-back nights.
• The Mavs are 9-3 against the top 8 teams in the East this year.
• After shooting 2-9 against OKC, in his first game back after missing 6 games with facial injuries, Rajon Rondo has gone 10-17 in the last two games.
• The Mavericks defensive rating of 97.1 in the last 12 games is second the league to Memphis' 93.4 (h/t Chuck Cooperstein).

Power Ranking the Mavs

A look at where the Mavs stack up in leading sports websites NBA power rankings after this past week.


ESPN.com 9.
"The good news: Dallas certainly played its part in helping the West establish a new record with seven teams reaching the All-Star break at least 15 games over .500 for the first time in league history. The bad news: Dallas has one of the tougher remaining schedules and its own fair share of injuries."

ESPN.com Hollinger Power Rankings: 7.

NBA.com: 5.
"The Mavs came out flat in Oklahoma City on Thursday, but got production from their bench in weekend wins over Houston and Charlotte. On Friday, three reserves scored in double-figures. On Sunday, Richard Jefferson had a double-double (and a great offensive foul) starting for Chandler Parsons and Amar'e Stoudemire scored 14 points in 11 minutes."

Yahoo Sports: 8.
"The arrival of big man Amar’e Stoudemire is now even more vital with forward Chandler Parsons sidelined because of a left ankle injury."

CBS Sports: 11.
"They may finish with a worse record after the Rondo trade, but they are much more equipped to make a postseason run."

SI.com: 9.
"Tyson Chandler and Amar’e Stoudemire failed as headliners in New York, but they could be the perfect complementary contributors in Dallas. Stoudemire shined in his Mavs debut, scoring 14 points on 5-of-8 shooting and adding three rebounds in just 11 minutes."

SB Nation: 6.

"I wasn't sure if Richard Jefferson could play 33 minutes in a Mavericks victory, but those things occurred on Sunday. Nothing could have prepared Michael Kidd-Gilchrist -- or anyone really -- for what happened next:"

NBC ProBasketballTalk: 8.

"They picked up a quality win over the Rockets this past weekend, but just a couple nights before the Thunder ran the Mavs out of the building. Amar’e Stoudemire looked good and bouncy in his debut, if he can keep that up it will be a nice pick up."

Mavericks 92 Hornets 81: Game 58 Recap

The Lead
Stoudemire's impressive debut and Monta's big fourth quarter leads the Mavs to another win over the East.

Box Score 

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Ellis, 23
Rebounds: Nowitzki, 12
Assists: Jefferson, Ellis, Rondo, Harris, 4
+-: Jefferson, +16
Hornets
Points: Mo Williams, 22
Rebounds: Jefferson, 17
Assists: Stepehnson, 5
+-: Henderson, +1

Game Ball
Monta Ellis
23 points (15 in the 4th quarter), 4 assists, 3 rebounds

X-Factor
Amar'e Stoudemire
14 points, 5-8 FG, 4-4 FT in 11 minutes

Goat Horns
Al Jefferson
8 points, 4-16 FG

Play of the Game
It somehow it didn't count, but that didn't made Richard Jefferson's posterization of Michael Kidd-Gilchrist in the third quarter any less impressive.

Stat of the Game
The Mavericks defense led by Tyson Chandler held Al Jefferson to 4-16 shooting. In two games against the Mavs this year Jefferson only shot 25% (7-28).


Of Note

• Amar'e Stoudemire made a major impact in his Mavericks debut, scoring 14 points in 11 minutes including 3 dunks.
• Chandler Parsons missed the first of what will be at least three games with a sprained ankle.
• Starting in Parsons' place, Richard Jefferson had a double-double, hit 3 threes and had one emphatic dunk.
• Dirk, who had a team high 12 rebounds, sat out the last 10 minutes of the game.
• After starting the game 3-13, Monta Ellis scored 15 points in final 6:42 of the game on 6-8 shooting.
• The Mavs won the rebounding battle for a second straight game by a 49-47 count.

Grades
Nowitzki: B
Jefferson: A
Chandler: A
Ellis: A-
Rondo: B
Aminu: B
Harris: B-
Stoudemire: A
Barea: B+
Villanuvea: B

Quote of Note
 "As soon as I came down, I saw out of the corner of my eye him pointing the wrong direction, and I just -- at that point in time -- I black out and just start screaming. It's one of those things. I don't want to make a big deal out of it. I'm an old man. It happens every now and then. You get lucky once in a while."
Richard Jefferson on his dunk

They Tweeted It

Was Michael Kidd-Gilchrist in the In Memoriam tribute.
— RUSS BENGT$ON (@russbengtson) February 23, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (38-20), stay at home to face the second place team from the East, the Toronto Raptors (37-18).

Mavericks vs. Hornets: Game 58 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (37-20) vs. Charlotte Hornets (22-31)
Sun. Feb. 22, 6:30 at the AAC
TV: FSSW, NBALP
Line: Mavs by 10.5

2014-15 Matchups
Nov. 17 at Charlotte
Mavs 107 Hornets 80

All-Time Series
Mavs 34 Hornets 14
 
Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 108.9 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.7 (14th)
Point Differential: +5.1
Hornets:
Offense: 97.7 (29th)
Defense: 100.4 (6th)
Point Differential: -2.7

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Al-Farouq Aminu or Richard Jefferson
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Hornets
PG: Mo Williams
SG: Gerald Henderson
SF: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist
PF: Cody Zeller
C: Al Jefferson

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 19.4
RPG: Chandler, 11.9
APG: Rondo, 6.3
PER: Chandler, 21.0
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.1
Hornets
PPG: Walker, 18.8
RPG: Jefferson, 8.5
APG: Walker, 5.2
PER: Jefferson, 20.0
Win Shares: Walker, 3.9

Of Note

• Chandler Parsons is doubtful for the Mavs, after leaving Friday's game with a sprained ankle.
• Kemba Walker is out for the Hornets after having knee surgery.
• Amare Stoudemire is set to make his Mavericks debut.
• The Mavericks have won 13 straight home games against the Hornets, last losing on Jan. 24, 1998 to the first incarnation of the Charlotte Hornets.
• The Mavs are 18-5 against the East, but all five lossed have been home. Dallas plays four straight against the East starting on Sunday.
• In the last four games, Charlie Villanueva has made 12 of his 18 three point attempts.

Mavericks 111 Rockets 100: Game 57 Recap

The Lead
Inspired bench play leads the Mavs to as much as a 20 point lead, as they hang on late to beat the Rockets.

Box Score

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Aminu, Harris, 17
Rebounds: Chandler, 14
Assists: Harris, 7
+-: Harris, +16
Rockets
Points: Harden, 26
Rebounds: Jones, 9
Assists: Harden, 5
+-: Dorsey, +1

Game Ball
Al-Farouq Aminu
17 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks, 6-11 FG

X-Factor
Devin Harris
17 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds, 3-9 3PT

Goat Horns
Patrick Beverley
3 points, 1-7 FG, 1-5 3PT

Play of the Game
With the Mavericks lead down to 5 with 4:48 to go, Charlie Villanueva strips James Harden after a defensive rebound and finds Al-Farouq Aminu for a dunk.

Stat of the Game
For only the 3rd time in the last 27 games the Mavs outrebound their opponent, as they win the battle of the boards 50-47.

Of Note

• Chandler Parsons left the game early in the fourth quarter with a sprained ankle. He will have an MRI tomorrow.
• Dirk also left the game with an injured elbow but returned in the fourth quarter.
• The Mavericks had 8 players score in double figures for the fourth time this season. Before this year they hadn't done it since Feb. 16, 2011.
• Aminu's 17 points and 12 rebounds were both season highs.
• After starting the game 0-3, Rajon Rondo made his last 6 shots.
• The win put the Mavs a half game behind Portland and Houston for 3rd place in the West.

Grades
Nowitzki: B
Parsons: B+
Chandler: A-
Ellis: B-
Rondo: B
Aminu: A+
Harris: A
Jefferson: B
Barea: B-
Villanueva: A

Quote of Note
"He's going to be huge for us. He's one of those glue guys that does everything well. He can bring a spark. His length, his timing, he's one of those guys that you're not going to necessarily see his production on the stat sheet. You did tonight, but every night, he gives you something great."
Tyson Chandler on Aminu

They Tweeted It
 

A Mavs bench of Harris, Stoudemire, and Aminu has to make you feel comfy come playoff time. Energy, explosiveness, versatility
— Bobby Karalla (@bobbykaralla) February 21, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (37-20) will have Amare Stoudemire in uniform for the first time when they face the Charlotte Hornets (22-30) at home on Sunday. 

Mavericks vs. Rockets: Game 57 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (36-20) vs. Houston Rockets (36-17)
Fri.. Feb. 20, 7:30 at the AAC
TV: FSSW, NBALP
Line: Mavs by 2

2014-15 Matchups
Nov. 22 at Houston
Rockets 95 Mavs 92
Jan. 28 at Houston
Rockets 99 Mavs 94

All-Time Series
Rockets 83 Mavs 78

Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 109.0 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.8 (14th)
Point Differential: +5.0
Rockets
Offense: 103.8 (13th)
Defense: 100.3 (8th)
Point Differential: +3.3

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Chandler Parsons
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Rockets
PG: Patrick Beverley
SG: James Harden
SF: Trevor Ariza
PF: Donatas Motiejunas
C: Joey Dorsey

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 19.5
RPG: Chandler, 11.9
APG: Rondo, 6.5
PER: Chandler, 21.2
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.0
Rockets
PPG: Harden, 27.4
RPG: Howard, 11.0
APG: Harden, 6.8
PER: Harden, 27.3
Win Shares: Harden, 11.1

Of Note

• Once again the Mavericks face Houston on the second night of a back-to-back. All four games between the teams this season have the Mavs in that situation.
• The Mavs have won 7 out of their last 8 home games against the Rockets although they did lose the last meeting at the AAC in January 2014.
• Dwight Howard is out indefinitely for the Rockets with a sprained knee.
• In his last two games Monta Ellis is only 3-19 from the field for 14 points. On the bright side he does have 13 steals.
• The Mavs have shot below 43% in  six straight games.

Mavericks at Thunder: Game 56 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (36-19) at Oklahoma City Thunder (28-25)
Thurs. Feb. 19, 7:00 at the Chesapeake Energy Arena
TV: TNT
Line: Thunder by 5

2014-15 Matchups
Dec. 28 at Dallas
Mavs 112 Thunder 107

All-Time Series
Thunder 72 Mavs 68

Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 109.4 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.9 (14th)
Point Differential: +5.4
Thunder
Offense: 102.6 (16th)
Defense: 101.0 (10th)
Point Differential: +1.9

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: Rajon Rondo
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Chandler Parsons
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Thunder
PG: Russell Westbrook
SG: Andre Roberson
SF: Kevin Durant
PF: Serge Ibaka
C: Kendrick Perkins


Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 19.8
RPG: Chandler, 11.8
APG: Rondo, 6.5
PER: Chandler, 21.4
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.0
Thunder
PPG: Durant, 25.9
RPG: Iabaka, 7.5
APG: Westbrook, 7.6
PER: Durant, 28.6
Win Shares: Westbrook, 5.9

Of Note

• With Rajon Rondo and Tyson Chandler back from injury the Mavs will have a fully healthy roster that will include the newly signed Amar'e Stoudemire coming off the bench.
• The Mavs have won 3 in a row over the Thunder, after losing the previous 11 matchups between the teams.
• In the Mavericks win over OKC on Dec. 28, Rondo held All-Star Game MVP Russell Westbrook to 18 points on 6-23 shooting.
• Stoudemire had 20 points and 9 rebounds on 7-8 shooting against the Thunder on Nov. 28.
• In his last two games against OKC, Dirk has scored a combined 62 points and gone 20-20 from the line.

Stoudemire Officialy Signs

It's finally official. Amar'e Stoudemire is a Dallas Maverick. Stoudemire signed a deal for the rest of the season for the veterans' minimum. Stoudemire was bought out of his contract with the Knicks on Sunday. He is expected to be available to play in tomorrow night's game in Oklahoma City. To make room on the roster, the Mavericks waived Ricky Ledo. Stoudemire will wear jersey number 1, the same number Ledo had.

In a statement released by the team Stoudemire said:
"I'm excited to be a part of a first-class organization. To play alongside Dirk Nowitzki, Tyson Chandler  and other great players, I think it's a tremendous opportunity for me to compete for a championship."

(image courtesy of the Mavs)

News and Notes: Rondo to Play Thursday; Ledo to be Released

• Rajon Rondo participated in practice this afternoon and is expected to play Thursday. Rondo has missed the last 6 games since he fractured his orbital bone on Jan. 31 in Orlando. He is not sure whether he will where a mask or not.

• The Mavericks are expected to release Ricky Ledo  in order to clear a roster spot to sign Amare Stoudemire. Stoudemire will be eligible to sign when he clears waivers at 4:00 tomorrow. Ledo has spent most of the season with the Texas Legends of the D-League and has only played 11 minutes in 5 games for the Mavs.

Amar'e Agrees to Sign With the Mavs

Free-agent big man Amar'e Stoudemire, who was waived by the Knicks yesterday, has committed to sign with the Mavericks after he passes waivers on Wednesday. Shams Charania of RealGM.com was the first to report on Stoudemrie's decision.
Stoudemire is a six time All-Star, whose career has been sidetracked by constant knee injuries, but has still been a productive player this year. In 36 games with the Knicks this season he averaged 12.0 points and 6.8 rebounds in 24 minutes per game.
Stoudemire's signing is key for a Mavs team whose has been without a consistent backup center since trading Brandan Wright in the Rajon Rondo trade.
The news comes on the same day Jermaine O'Neal announced he would not return to the league this year. The Mavs had hoped to sign both players but will gladly take Stoudemire as a big upgrade to their frontcourt depth behind Tyson Chandler.

O'Neal Not Returning to the NBA

While it looks like the chances are good the Mavs will bring aboard Amare Stoudemire, Jermaine O'Neal will not be joining him in a Mavericks uniform. O'Neal has called off his attempted comeback for now, citing his lack of his physical readiness.
In an instagram post, O'Neal wrote: "I don't feel like I'm at that position now with just seven weeks of training, and I'm not comfortable making that commitment at this point.The issue for me is timing and things feeling right. I'm a true believer of signs and listening and understanding life."
O'Neal, a six time All-Star, averaged 7.9 points and 5.5 rebounds in 20.1 minutes per game last season for Golden State.

A Dirk All-Star Game Recap

Playing in his 13th All-Star Game, Dirk Nowitzki scored 5 points to go along with 5 rebounds and 2 steals in 12 minutes of action in the West's 163-158 win.
The highlight of Dirk's time on the floor, came when he finished off an alley-oop dunk on a pass from Stephen Curry in the second quarter. The dunk certainly came as a shock as Dirk hasn't converted on an alley-oop in the regular season since 2004.
The celebration was awesome as well, as he pointed to the sky to mimic Vince Carter in the 2000 Dunk Contest. Dirk would also hit a three in the third quarter.
Russell Westbrook was named the MVP, as his 41 points were one shy of the game's all-time record of 42 by Wilt Chamberlain.
In other news, Amare Stoudemire and the Knicks agreed to a contract buyout that clears the way for him to become a free agent. According to Marc Stein and others, the Mavs are considered the favorites to land Stoudemire.

Dirk dunk and celebration https://t.co/Ufp0htyC2Y
— Steve Noah (@Steve_OS) February 16, 2015

Dirk Nowitzki-All-Star: A Photo History

Mavericks 87 Jazz 82: Game 55 Recap

The Lead
In the last game before the All-Star break, the Mavs grind out a win behind Barea's third quarter heroics.

Box Score 

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Barea, 22
Rebounds: Nowitzki, 14
Assists: Harris, 6
+-: Nowitzki, +11
Jazz
Points: Burke, 16
Rebounds: Kanter, 10
Assists: Hayward, 8
+-: Kanter, Millsap, +2

Game Ball
J.J. Barea
22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 8-15 FG, 4-7 3PT

X-Factor
Bernard James
9 points, 3 rebounds, 3 blocks

Goat Horns
Dante Exum
2 points, 1-8 FG, 0-4 3PT

Play of the Game
With the shot clock running down early in the fourth quarter, Devin Harris' prayer from deep is answered, as his three puts Dallas up by 10.

Stat of the Game
Monta Ellis' 7 steals were the most by a Mav since Jason Kidd had 7 steals on Feb. 17, 2010.

Of Note

• Ellis played 37 minutes despite a hip injury that caused him to leave Monday's game in the first quarter.
• Tyson Chandler missed the game with an ankle injury. Bernard James, who signed a 10 day contract earlier in the day, helped fill in the void with 9 points, 3 rebounds and 3 blocks in 22 minutes.
• Both teams were scoreless for the first4:13 of the game.
• J.J. Barea scored 15 of his game high 22 points in the third quarter.
• The Mavs 36-19 record at the All-Star break is the 2nd best of Rick Carlisle's Mavericks tenure behind the 2011 championship team.
• After the game Dirk Nowitzki was named to his 13th All-Star team to replace the injured Anthony Davis.

Grades
Nowitzki: B
Parsons: C+
Smith: C-
Ellis: B
Barea: A
Aminu: B
Harris: B-
James: A
Villanueva: B-

Quote of Note
 "It was good. I was out there battling with my soldiers. We needed this win. They could have got it without me, but I hate sitting on the sidelines. I went out there and tried to do whatever I could to help us win."
Monta Ellis

Bonus Quote
 "I think his fashion is horrible but then again, he tells me I dress like an old man. We think he dresses like Justin Bieber. If you're into that type of stuff, I guess vote for him [in the All-Star Fashion Show]. If you like some grown man stuff, some slacks, some button downs, then I've got him beat."
Dirk on Chandler Parsons being in a fashion contest during All-Star weekend

They Tweeted It
 

Players with 13+ All Star Game appearances: Kareem, Kobe, Duncan, KG, Shaq, MJ, Malone, Jerry West, Wilt, Cousy, Havlicek -- and now Dirk.
— Tim Cato (@tim_cato) February 12, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (36-19) return from the All-Star break on February 19 to face Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook and Thunder (28-25) in Oklahoma City.

Dirk named to All-Star Game #13

It turns out the Mavericks will have an All-Star after all, and a familiar one at that.
Dirk Nowitzki was named by commissioner Adam Silver to replace the injured Anthony Davis on the Western Conference All-Star team. The All-Star Game will be held Sunday night from Mdison Square Garden in New York.
It is the 13th time in the last 14 years Dirk is in All-Star. Dirk is only the 12th player in history to be named an All-Star at least 13 times joining such names as Abdul-Jabbar, Bryant, Garnett, O' Neal, Duncan, Jordan, Malone, West, Chamberlain, Cousy and Havlicek.

In a statement Dirk said,  "It is always an honor to represent the Mavericks at the All-Star Game. This year it threw a little bit of a wrench into my plans, but I am very excited. Even though it was unexpected, I am looking forward to being a part of the festivities in New York."

Mavericks vs. Jazz: Game 55 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (35-19) vs. Utah Jazz (19-33)
Wed. Feb. 11, 7:30 at the AAC
TV: FSSW, NBALP
Line: Mavs by 4.5
 
2014-15 Matchups
Oct. 30 at Dallas
Mavs 120 Jazz 102
Nov. 7 at Utah
Mavs 105 Jazz 82

All-Time Series
Jazz 89 Mavs 68

Team Stats
Mavs
Offense: 109.6 (3rd)
Defense: 103.2 (14th)
Point Differential: +5.4
Jazz
Offense: 103.3 (15th)
Defense: 106.2 (27th)
Point Differential: -2.4

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: J.J. Barea
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Chandler Parsons
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Greg Smith or Dwight Powell
Jazz
PG: Dante Exum
SG: Elijah Millsap
SF: Gordon Hayward
PF: Derrick Favors
C: Enes Kanter

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 20.0
RPG: Chandler, 11.8
APG: Rondo, 6.5
PER: Chandler, 21.4
Win Shares: Chandler, 7.9
Jazz
PPG: Hayward, 19.8
RPG: Favors, 8.2
APG: Burke, 4.7
PER: Favors, 22.2
Win Shares: Hayward, 5.8

Of Note

• Tyson Chandler has been ruled out with an injured ankle. Monta Ellis (left hip) has been upgraded to questionable after participating in shootaround this morning.
• Ellis has played in 218 consecutive games.
• Bernard James has officialy been signed to a 10 day contract. James had played this year in China after spending the last two years with the Mavs.
• The Mavs have won seven in a row against the Jazz.
• This is the Mavericks final game before the All-Star break. They won't play again until a week from Thursday in Oklahoma City.

Mavs to Bring Back James on 10 Day Deal

With Tyson Chandler likely sidelined for Wednesday's game with an ankle injury, the Mavericks are are in the process of bringing back their former big man Bernard James on a 10 day contract according to Marc Stein.
James has played this season in China after spending the last two season with the Mavericks. He was released by the Mavs in October. Dallas is still intent on signing Jermaine O' Neal but that probably will have to have to wait until after the All-Star break.
In other injury news, Tim McMahon is reporting  Monta Ellis is undergoing an MRI this morning to determine the severity of his left hip injury.

UPDATE: Tyson Chandler has been ruled out for tomorrow's game vs. the Jazz but he is expected to return after the All-Star break. Monta Ellis is listed as doubtful while the team awaits the results of his MRI.

Clippers 115 Mavericks 98: Game 54 Recap

The Lead
Early exits of Chandler and Ellis doom the Mavs as DeAndre Jordan dominates inside.

Box Score

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Villanueva, 26
Rebounds: Parsons, 12
Assists: Barea, 7
+-: Chandler, Ledo, +1
Clippers
Points: Paul, 25
Rebounds: Jordan, 27
Assists: Paul, +13
+-: Paul, +23

Game Ball
DeAndre Jordan
22 points, 27 rebounds, 3 blocks, 8-12 FG

X-Factor
Charlie Villanueva
26 points, 5 rebounds, 9-13 FG, 5-7 3PT

Goat Horns
Devin Harris
4 points, 1-8 FG, 0-4 3PT, 5 fouls

Stat of the Game
DeAndre Jordan's 27 rebounds were the third most against the Mavs since 1985. Dennis Rodman had a 32 rebound game and Kevin Wllis had 31. Rodman also had 27 in a game.

Of Note

• Both Tyson Chandler (left ankle) and Monta Ellis (left hip) left the game with injuries within the first four minutes of the game. Their status going forward is unknown.
• Charlie Villanueva's 26 points were his most points since he scored 30 points on Nov. 12, 2010.
• Although the Clippers were without Blake Griffin, J.J. Redick scored 15 points after being listed as doubtful earlier in the day with back spasms.
• Chandler Parsons' 12 rebounds were a season high.
• Backups centers Greg Smith and Dwight Powell combined for 3 points and 5 rebounds in 23 minutes.

Grades
Nowitzki: A-
Parsons: B+
Barea: B+
Smith: D
Harris: D
Powell: D+
Aminu: B
Villanueva: A
Jefferson: D+
Felton: C-

Quote of Note
"Injuries are part of the game. … It's hard, but life is hard."
Devin Harris

They Tweeted It

Mavs broadcast just said Villanueva has never been on a team that won more than 34 games. Been in the league 10 years. That's amazing.
— Jared Dubin (@JADubin5) February 10, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (35-19) play their final game before the Al-Star break at home against the Jazz (19-33) on Wednesday.

Mavericks vs. Clippers: Game 54 Preview

Dallas Mavericks (35-18) vs. Los Angeles Clippers (33-19)
Mon. Feb. 9, 7:30 at the AAC
TV: FSSW, NBATV
Line: Mavs by 8.5
 
2014-15 Matchups
Clippers 120 Mavs 100

All-Time Series
Mavs 86 Clippers 53

Team Stats
Mavs
Off. Rating: 109.7 (3rd)
Def. Rating: 102.9 (14th)
Point Differential: +5.8
Clippers
Offense: 110.4 (T1st)
Defense: 104.0 (17th)
Point Differential: +5.7

Projected Starters
Mavs
PG: J.J. Barea
SG: Monta Ellis
SF: Chandler Parsons
PF: Dirk Nowitzki
C: Tyson Chandler
Clippers
PG: Chris Paul
SG: Austin Rivers
SF: Matt Barnes
PF: Spencer Hawes
C: DeAndre Jordan

Team Leaders
Mavs
PPG: Ellis, 20.4
RPG: Chandler, 12.1
APG: Rondo, 6.5
PER: Chandler, 21.4
Win Shares: Chandler, 8.0
Clippers
PPG: Griffin, 22.5
RPG: Jordan, 13.5
APG: Paul, 9.5
PER: Paul, 24.6
Win Shares: Paul, 8.8

Of Note

• A win would give the Mavericks back-to-back wins over top 8 teams in the West. Before Saturday's win against the Portland the Mavs only had  two such wins all season.
• The Clippers are currently reeling, having lost four games in a row and are without Blake Griffin (staph infection in right elbow) and J.J. Redick (back spasms).
• The Mavs have dropped 7 out of their last 9 games to the Clippers.
• Chandler Parsons has scored at least 18 points in 7 out of his last 9 games.
• Especially with Griffin out the Mavs must focus significant attention on DeAndre Jordan. In his last five games against Dallas, Jordan is averaging 16.4 points and 15.2 rebounds.

Mavericks 111 Blazers 101 (OT): Game 53 Recap

The Lead
Down 11 with less than two minutes to go, Mavs rally as Dirk's 3 sends it to overtime where Parsons takes over to give Dallas a thrilling win.

Box Score 

Leaders
Mavs
Points: Nowitzki, 25
Rebounds: Chandler, 13
Assists: Barea, 7
+-: Nowitzki, +23
Blazers
Points: Lillard, 26
Rebounds: Aldridge, 14
Assists: Lillard, Blake, 7
+-: McCollum, +6

Game Balls
Dirk Nowitzki
25 points, 11-19 FG, 3-6 3PT
Chandler Parsons
20 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals

X-Factor
Al-Farouq Aminu
9 points, 9 rebounds, 2 blocks

Goat Horns
Nicolas Batum
2 points, 0-8 FG, 0-5 3PT

Play of the Game
With the Mavericks trailing by three with less than 30 seconds left, Devin Harris rebounded a Monta Ellis missed three and then passed it to Ellis who found Dirk for a tying three with 20.9 seconds left.

Stat of the Game
The Mavs trailed Portland 94-83 with 1:55 to go. From then on Dallas outscored the Blazers 13-2 for the rest of regulation and 15-5 in overtime.

Of Note

• Chandler Parsons scored 10 of the Mavericks' 15 points in overtime.
• The win was the Mavs' third over a top 8 team in the West this season. They also have beaten San Antonio at home and won at Memphis.
• Damian Lillard missed his last 6 three point attempts after making his first 4.
• The Mavericks forced 23 Portland turnovers.
• Devin Harris left the game in OT after turning his ankle.
• The Mavs have won 5 out of 6 after losing 4 games in a row.

Grades
Nowitzki: A+
Parsons: A+
Chandler: A
Ellis: A-
Barea: B
Aminu: A
Harris: A-

Quote of Note
"Earning that win is one of the best wins in the seven years I've been here, if you look at all the circumstances of the game."
Rick Carlisle

They Tweeted It

forever. pic.twitter.com/GDBzazX1AJ
— Kevin Brolan (@kevinbrolan) February 8, 2015

Next Up
The Mavericks (35-18) will host another West contender on Monday when Chris Paul, Blake Griffin and the Clippers (33-18) come to town.