Jim Feist
25* Situational Slam Dunk - Mavericks
Dallas is in first place in the division, ahead of San Antonio, so a division title will be an impressive accomplishment. They take care of business at home and catch a break here against a New York Knick team that not only doesn't play any defense but is in a terrible situational spot. It's the second of a back to back spot for NY, playing at uptempo Memphis, and their third game in four nights (all on the road). Part of it has been the dreaded Texas Triangle, at San Antonio and now at Dallas. They didn't play well at San Antonio, losing by double digits and have had some frightful losses the last week, giving up 124 to the Cavs, 102 at Toronto and (uggh) 113 to the Nets, an ugly 113-93 home loss. Dallas has a sizzling 23-9 home mark and is well rested, two full days off. And guess what: The Big Trade has turned out to be a boon for the Mavs. This team was reborn when it traded for Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and DeShawn Stevenson. The best thing about the winning streak, however, is the attitude that has come with it. The Mavericks are swaggering rather than staggering, as they were before the deal. Can't see the Mavericks not being rested or prepared, especially with a 13-game win streak on the line. Play the Mavericks.
25* Situational Slam Dunk - Mavericks
Dallas is in first place in the division, ahead of San Antonio, so a division title will be an impressive accomplishment. They take care of business at home and catch a break here against a New York Knick team that not only doesn't play any defense but is in a terrible situational spot. It's the second of a back to back spot for NY, playing at uptempo Memphis, and their third game in four nights (all on the road). Part of it has been the dreaded Texas Triangle, at San Antonio and now at Dallas. They didn't play well at San Antonio, losing by double digits and have had some frightful losses the last week, giving up 124 to the Cavs, 102 at Toronto and (uggh) 113 to the Nets, an ugly 113-93 home loss. Dallas has a sizzling 23-9 home mark and is well rested, two full days off. And guess what: The Big Trade has turned out to be a boon for the Mavs. This team was reborn when it traded for Caron Butler, Brendan Haywood and DeShawn Stevenson. The best thing about the winning streak, however, is the attitude that has come with it. The Mavericks are swaggering rather than staggering, as they were before the deal. Can't see the Mavericks not being rested or prepared, especially with a 13-game win streak on the line. Play the Mavericks.
