Dallas Mavericks

Mavericks vs. Blazers Preview: Pivotal Moment in the Season says Irving

Published

2 months ago

December 28, 2024

As the Dallas Mavericks visit the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on Saturday night, the matchup feels more significant than a typical mid-season game.

With Luka Dončić sidelined until late January, according to reports, and the Mavericks entering a critical stretch, this game holds implications for both teams’ trajectories.

Game Details

Date: Saturday, December 28, 2024
Time: 7:00 PM PT / 9:00 PM CT
Venue: Moda Center, Portland, OR
TV: KFAA, MAVS TV Stream
Radio: KEGL 97.1 FM, 99.1 FM Zona MX (Spanish)

Key Storylines

1. A Turning Point for the Mavericks

Kyrie Irving emphasized the importance of this stretch, calling it a period where teams solidify their playoff identities. Without Dončić, the Mavericks have embraced a defensive-first, selfless style to stay competitive. The leadership of Irving and Spencer Dinwiddie will be pivotal, especially on back-to-back nights after Friday’s gritty 98-89 win over Phoenix.

Irving, who played nearly 40 minutes in Phoenix, declared his commitment to playing Saturday, underscoring the team’s urgency:

“All excuses go out the window. This is where teams either drop off or build their identities for playoff runs.”

2. Portland’s Resilience

Despite their 10-20 record, the Blazers have shown fight, particularly at home. Their last two games at Moda Center were narrow victories over Denver (126-124) and Utah (122-120), highlighted by a game-winning buzzer-beater from Scoot Henderson against the Jazz.

Shaedon Sharp and Deni Avdija also contributed significantly, combining for 54 points in the win over Utah. While the Blazers began December with six consecutive losses, their home performances suggest they won’t go down without a fight.

3. Chauncey Billups’ Absence

Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups will miss the game following the death of his grandmother. Assistant coach Nate Bjorkgren will step in as interim head coach, potentially adding an emotional layer to Portland’s effort.

Team Comparison and Recent Meetings

Head-to-Head

The Mavericks have dominated the matchup this season, winning both meetings:
- Dec. 1 in Portland: Mavs 137-131
- Dec. 21 in Dallas: Mavs 132-108
Dallas has won six straight against Portland, including four consecutive victories at Moda Center.

Mavericks on the Road

Road Record: 10-6, nearly matching their home record (10-5).
Dallas has excelled in back-to-back games, boasting a 4-1 record in such situations.

Blazers at Home

Portland’s recent wins against Denver and Utah showcase their ability to protect their home court.
The Blazers have relied heavily on young talent, with Shaedon Sharp and Scoot Henderson stepping up in crucial moments.

Players to Watch

Mavericks

Kyrie Irving: The offensive leader in Dončić’s absence, Irving’s performance and leadership will set the tone.
Spencer Dinwiddie: A versatile contributor, Dinwiddie will need to balance scoring and playmaking while providing defensive energy.

Blazers

Scoot Henderson: The rookie’s confidence is growing, evident from his clutch play against Utah. His matchup with Dallas’ guards will be pivotal.
Shaedon Sharp: A breakout player for Portland, Sharp’s scoring ability and athleticism pose a challenge for Dallas’ defense.

What’s at Stake?

For Dallas, this stretch is about maintaining momentum and solidifying playoff positioning without their star player. Portland, while out of playoff contention, is fighting to build confidence and chemistry among its young core.

Projected Lineups

Mavericks

G: Kyrie Irving
G: Tim Hardaway Jr.
F: Josh Green
F: Grant Williams
C: Dwight Powell

Blazers

G: Scoot Henderson
G: Shaedon Sharp
F: Deni Avdija
F: Jerami Grant
C: Deandre Ayton

Prediction

Given Dallas’ recent success against Portland and their resilience in back-to-back situations, the Mavericks hold the edge. However, if the Blazers’ young stars can replicate their recent home performances, they could turn this into a nail-biter.

Final Score Prediction: Mavericks 118, Blazers 112