Mavericks Seek 8th Straight Win Against Thunder in NBA Cup Quarterfinals
Dallas Mavericks vs Oklahoma City Thunder: NBA Cup Quarterfinal Preview & Predictions
The Dallas Mavericks are riding high on a seven-game winning streak as they head into the NBA In-Season Tournament quarterfinals to face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night. Set to tip off at 9:30 p.m. ET at Paycom Center, the Thunder enter as 4.5-point favorites. The total for the game is set at 229.5 points.
Both teams come into this game in excellent form. Dallas boasts a 16-8 record, while Oklahoma City sits at 18-5, with the Mavericks showcasing dominance on both ends of the floor. At the same time, the Thunder have been nearly invincible at home this season. Here’s a breakdown of the key stats, matchups, and trends for this exciting quarterfinal battle.
Dallas Mavericks: Luka & Kyrie Lead the Charge
The Mavericks are fresh off a 125-118 victory over the Toronto Raptors, where they shot 46.9% from the field and dominated the boards with a 52-39 rebounding advantage. Dallas also took control at the free-throw line, converting 32 of 37 attempts. Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving spearheaded the offense, combining for 58 points and 15 assists.
Luka Dončić continues to shine as one of the NBA’s top players, averaging 28.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 8.1 assists per game. His ability to dominate both as a scorer and playmaker will be crucial for Dallas in breaking down Oklahoma City’s defense. Kyrie Irving, who is averaging 24.3 points and 5.2 assists, complements Dončić perfectly, offering elite perimeter shooting and creating space for the offense.
Dallas ranks 4th in NET rating, combining the 4th-best offensive rating with the 8th-best defensive rating. Defensively, the Mavericks have been exceptional, ranking 5th in opponent effective field goal percentage (eFG%) and 3rd in blocks. They’ve also done well in limiting three-pointers, ranking 7th in opponent 3PT%.
On the offensive side, Dallas ranks 6th in effective field goal percentage (eFG%) and 10th in offensive rebounding percentage. Their proficiency in scoring at the rim (5th in rim FG%) and shooting from beyond the arc (37.4%) makes them a formidable offensive force.
However, injury concerns could impact their depth. Naji Marshall (illness) and Jaden Hardy (ankle) are both listed as questionable for Tuesday’s game, and their availability could influence the Mavericks’ rotations.
Oklahoma City Thunder: Dominating on Both Ends
Oklahoma City enters Tuesday’s game riding a wave of momentum after winning 7 of their last 8 games. Their most recent victory came against the New Orleans Pelicans, where the Thunder shot 52.9% from the field and dominated the glass with a +10 rebounding margin. Oklahoma City also had a 60-46 advantage in points in the paint and led by as many as 30 points at one point in the game.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been sensational this season, averaging 29.8 points, 6.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. His all-around game, combining elite scoring with superb defense, has made him one of the NBA’s top players. Jalen Williams, another key contributor, has emerged as a breakout star, averaging 22.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 5.0 assists. His versatility on both ends of the floor will be critical for Oklahoma City’s success against a tough Mavericks squad.
Oklahoma City leads the NBA with the top NET rating and also boasts the best defensive rating in the league. Defensively, the Thunder excel across all areas:
Offensively, Oklahoma City isn’t among the league’s best in terms of overall shooting percentage, but they excel in protecting the basketball (1st in turnover percentage) and have a lethal mid-range game, shooting 45.2% from that area.
The Thunder’s only injury concern is Ousmane Dieng (finger), who will miss Tuesday’s game. However, Oklahoma City’s depth should allow them to manage his absence without much difficulty.
Conclusion
The Mavericks and Thunder have faced off twice this season, with Dallas winning 121-119 in the most recent meeting on November 17. Historically, Dallas has had success against Oklahoma City, posting a 6-4 record straight-up and against the spread in their last 10 meetings. However, this game will be played in Oklahoma City, where the Thunder have posted a 9-2 record at home this season, making it a tough environment for the Mavericks.
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