The Dallas Mavericks will be on the road to take on the Chicago Bulls at 7pm CT. The Mavericks won two straight after losing five of six games.
The Mavericks are in a dogfight for seeding as they try to avoid the play-ins. The Mavericks hold the tiebreaker, but are currently one game behind the sixth-place Phoenix Suns.
Chicago is currently in ninth place in the East and in contention for a play-in spot. Things to note are:
Luka Doncic's historic run
Doncic has long been the straw that stirs the Mavericks' liquor. Lately, all the drinking has been done by him. Doncic continues his historic streak with six consecutive triple-doubles of 30 points or more and five consecutive triple-doubles of 35 points or more. Both are NBA records.
The Bulls have Alex Caruso, one of the best defenders in the world, who will certainly be used to end their losing streak. Doncic also continues his historic technical run, moving closer and closer to his 16th suspension and mandatory suspension. He must not allow Caruso to get under him and cause a technical.
Mavericks center position
The Mavericks won all four games in which Daniel Gafford started, despite lineup data suggesting the Mavericks were better with Daniel Gafford on the bench. He made his last 19 field goals, making it three perfect games in a row. However, Derek Lively is a much more versatile defender and a cornerstone of the Mavericks' future. The Mavericks' center position is an attractive position that should continue to be watched.
Tim Hardaway Jr. comes out of trouble
Hardaway played well against the Detroit Pistons and is expected to end a long slump. Hardaway is the Mavericks' most high-volume shooter outside of Doncic, and they need his shot. He went 4-of-8 from 3 against Detroit. The streaky shooter is capable of long streaks, and I hope he can carry that into this game.
How to watch
The game will be broadcast on WFAA at 7pm local time.
