The
Dallas Mavericks are poised to extend their dominance over division rivals, the
San Antonio Spurs, as they head into their fourth and final showdown of the 2023-24 NBA season. With a commanding 3-0 lead in the season, the Mavericks have their sights set on sweeping the Spurs, a feat they've accomplished only once in franchise history.
Their previous encounter on Feb. 14 culminated in a convincing 116-93 victory for the Mavericks, highlighted by the dynamic duo of
Kyrie Irving and
Luka Doncic. The pair combined for an impressive 61 points, outshining
Victor Wembanyama's valiant 26-point effort for the Spurs. Despite Wembanyama's standout performance, the Mavericks' revamped defense, fortified by acquisitions like PJ Washington and Daniel Gafford, stifled the Spurs' offense.
As the anticipation builds for their upcoming clash, basketball enthusiasts can catch the action live on Bally Sports Southwest Dallas and Bally Sports Southwest San Antonio, with online streaming available via NBA League Pass for those outside Texas. The game is scheduled to tip off at 8:00 pm ET at Frost Bank Center.
In the Western Conference standings, the Mavericks currently hold the seventh spot with a solid 39-29 record, while the struggling Spurs occupy the cellar with a 15-53 mark.
Starting Lineups:
Dallas Mavericks:
- PG: Luka Doncic
- SG: Kyrie Irving
- SF: Derrick Jones Jr.
- PF: PJ Washington
- C: Daniel Gafford
San Antonio Spurs:
- PG: Tre Jones
- SG: Devin Vassell
- SF: Julian Champagnie
- PF: Jeremy Sochan
- C: Victor Wembanyama
Entering the game with momentum on their side, the Mavericks have won five of their last six outings, including a statement victory against the reigning champions, the Denver Nuggets. Spearheading their charge are Irving and Doncic, whose exceptional play on both ends of the floor has been instrumental in the team's recent success. Moreover, the seamless integration of Washington and Gafford has provided the Mavericks with a newfound balance and depth.
On the flip side, the Spurs have endured a challenging stretch, managing just two wins in their last nine games. However, they displayed flashes of brilliance in their recent triumph over the Brooklyn Nets. Despite Wembanyama's consistent brilliance, the Spurs have struggled to find cohesion and consistency as a unit, particularly on offense.
As the game approaches, both squads boast relatively healthy rosters, with the Mavericks expected to have all hands on deck except for Josh Green, while the Spurs will be without Charles Bassey, who is sidelined for the remainder of the season.
As the Mavericks seek to assert their authority over the Spurs, all eyes will be on Doncic, Irving, and company to deliver another commanding performance and secure the coveted sweep in front of their home crowd.