Much like the offense, the Dallas Mavericks' defense has performed well since the trade deadline. The team has a record of 5 wins and 0 losses since the end of the game, and he has been assigned the No. 3 defense.
Some of the improvement can be attributed to rookies Daniel Gafford and P.J. Washington. Gafford has been an integral part of the bottom half since coming to Dallas. He led the team with two blocks per game and has since averaged a double-double with 12.3 points and 10.3 rebounds. Luv. Gafford is also the team's second defensive rebounder.
As for Washington, he's a threat inside. He can also guard the post and use his quick hands to force opponents into difficult shots.
Rookie Derek Lively II also played well on the team's defense. Defensively, the Mavs play better when he's on the court. One of the reasons is that he's not afraid to fight inside. The rookie is also the second-best shot blocker on the team.
Another player who is playing well on defense is Luka Doncic. The Mavs All-Star leads the team with 1.5 steals and 8.5 defensive rebounds. That's not a bad thing for a player whose defensive effort has always been criticized.
The team also does a great job of preventing opponents from scoring high. None of Dallas' opponents have scored more than his 115 points during the team's winning streak.
If Dallas' defense improves, they have a chance in every game. As they say, defense wins championships.
