Previous head-to-head
Jan. 6: Mavericks 99, Warriors 82
Storyline
The Golden State Warriors will be looking for revenge after a 17-point shellacking at the hands of the Mavericks early this month. They’ve stumbled as of late, going 5-5 in their last 10 games. Looking to find balance between the returning Klay Thompson and the continued absence of Draymond Green due to injuries, the Warriors have not looked like themselves. They’ve been having difficulties trying to find the offensive rhythm that made them look like championship contenders during the first part of the season.
The Mavericks, on the other hand, continue to steamroll the competition, as Luka Doncic continues to elevate his squad to greater heights. The Mavs are 11-2 in their last 13 games, and they have their increased attention to defense to thank for that.
Key matchup
It will be a treat to see all the superstars from both squads at their finest. Steph Curry is trying to shoot himself out of a slump, although his buzzer-beater against the Houston Rockets last week should be a great confidence booster. It’s also been amazing (and sometimes humorous) to see Klay Thompson hoist up shots during his time on the floor because of minutes restriction.
Coach Kerr might need to lean on Thompson with Doncic on the other side. Assuming that Thompson will be available to play (currently a game-time decision), he should draw the assignment on the Mavericks superstar. Thompson wasn’t available yet when Doncic torched the Dubs for 26 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists in their first meeting this season. Luka is a matchup nightmare because he can use his size to torture smaller defenders. Thompson is the logical choice, and seeing how he does against Doncic will be a huge test for the Warriors long term.
If Thompson can’t go, the Warriors will have to defend Doncic by committee. They’ve got a battalion of rangy defenders to throw at Doncic in Otto Porter Jr and Andrew Wiggins. But seeing Gary Payton II on Doncic is a tantalizing prospect. Can the Young Glove hound Doncic, or will the Slovenian wunderkid also declare Payton as “Too small?”
Stat to track
The Mavericks are undefeated inside the new home of the Warriors at the Chase Center. They have a sparkling 3-0 record, tied with the Indiana Pacers for the best road team record against the Warriors. Doncic and company will look to extend the misery of the home team on Wednesday.
