PHOENIX — This is the most anticipated matchup in the NBA's second round. It pits the runner-up for Defensive Players of the Year against the player who won it. Mikal BridgesFor the perennial MVP candidate Luka DoncicIt was a mismatch in Dallas MavericksMonday's Game 1:'Favor It didn't matter.
Doncic topped the list of top-seeded Phoenix SunsThe Mavs lost the series opener by scoring 45 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists. They were eliminated from the Western Conference semifinals. 121-114 lossFootprint Center
Doncic rarely had an additional defender from the Suns to protect him. Phoenix stopped Doncic from getting into a rhythm, however, and he did a lot of damage. He made 15-of-30 shots from floor including two dunks and eight layups. The Mavs' other starters scored only 39 points. This is the second time Doncic has scored more points in 17 playoff games.
Jason Kidd, Dallas coach said that “He got what he wanted.” He played well, I thought. … We just need someone to join the party.
Mavs guard Jalen BrunsonThe star in the series' first round win over the Utah JazzThe off-night was a disaster with 16 points shooting 6-of-16. Sixth man Spencer DinwiddieDallas' other offensive creator, Corey, was held to just 8 points on 3-of-8 shots.
Monty Williams, Suns coach said, “When a guy has 45 you look at it and you don’t like that number, but I look at their assists numbers.” They had only 16. So, [Maxi] KleberWhile they did hit some 3, the majority of the time, no one else was able to go the way that they are.
The Suns were happy to defend Doncic, and usually play drop coverage during the pick-and roll when there is a threat of lob. Dwight PowellKleber was on the court and switched screens with Doncic, who was the Mavs second-leading scorer with 19 on 6-of-9 shooting. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Doncic had 14 points on 4-of-6 shooting with Bridges as the primary defender.
Doncic was only 4-of-11 in 3-point range for all 30 field goal attempts.
Doncic said, “We just have to attack more paint.” His career average postseason scoring of 33.4 points matches Michael Jordan's record for highest NBA score. “I took a few too many steps backs.” Our lethal weapon is to attack the paint. This is how we score easily, especially with 5-out, who have a large rotating. We need to get more paint.”
Doncic, however was more concerned with Dallas’ defensive performance, particularly in the first quarter. While building a 13 point lead at halftime, the Suns shot 63.6% from floor and 50% from 3-point range.
Doncic was attacked defensively by Phoenix early on and often. According to ESPN Stats & Information tracking, the Suns scored 24 points on 10-of-18 shooting when Doncic was the primary defender.
Doncic stated that “I believe our defense cost us the game today.” “Our defensive start was horrible, and we have to fix that. We can play a better defense, I am certain.
