The Dallas Mavericks’ win-streak came to an end in the NBA Cup quarter-finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Before the NBA Cup quarter-final, the Dallas Mavericks had the longest win-streak in the NBA, seven unbeaten.
Star player Luka Doncic contributed only 16 points, giving the Mavs plenty to think about as they look to bounce back.
What has really been striking about the Mavs’ recent run of wins, has been the strength in depth the team has, with several role players stepping up.
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd recently praised Quentin Grimes – but there is talent across the roster.
On the recent Road Trippin’ podcast, Kendrick Perkins named two players he feels have really impressed.
He commented: “It comes down to Dereck Lively and Daniel Gafford. They cause so much havoc offensively… put so much pressure on the defense.”
He added that Lively’s two-way ability really impressed him, and compared him to LA Lakers star Anthony Davis.
Perkins said: “Defensively Dereck Lively again, I’m not saying he’s up there with Wemby, but his impact defensively as a big is not far off from Anthony Davis.”
Fellow host Channing Frye picked out a different player who had caught his eye.
He explained: “Spencer Dinwiddie has been balling. I don’t want to say he’s figured it out because he always had talent, I think he’s figured out less is more with that team.
“He’s taken his chance, he’s making good moves defensively.”
One of the more under-rated stars in the NBA has been 2016 champion Kyrie Irving, who is letting his basketball do the talking.
Perkins said: “Kyrie has been a true leader, he’s been one of the best leaders in the game in a Dallas uniform.
“People were tearing him down at the Nets, since he’s been on a Dallas uniform, his leadership skills has been through the roof.”
Irving is leading by example, averaging 24 points per game this season. However, his 17 points against OKC were not enough, on an off-night for the team.
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