The Dallas Mavericks (10-4) failed to produce on the offensive end Saturday night in Houston, but managed to find a way to grab a 5-point lead, following a jumper by Monta Ellis with 1:22 remaining. They couldn’t hold on, and dropped their fourth game of the season 95-92. They now turn their attention to the Indiana Pacers (5-8), and will be looking to start another long streak in the process.

Mavs Projected Starters

PG: Jameer Nelson

SG: Monta Ellis

SF: Chandler Parsons

PF: Dirk Nowitzki

C: Tyson Chandler

Paers Projected Starters

PG: Donald Sloan

SG: Solomon Hill

SF: Chris Copeland

PF: Luis Scola

C: Roy Hibbert (Questionable)

 

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Handle The Paint

The Pacers come into tonight’s game ranked #2 in the NBA when it comes to rebounding. The Pacers only average 90.9 points per game, so if the Mavericks can clean up the glass on the defensive end, it should make it very difficult for the Pacers to keep up with the Mavericks offensive weapons for the whole 48 minutes. Roy Hibbert, who has had a very solid start to the season, hurt his ankle Friday night against Phoenix, and is listed as questionable. If he is unable to go, the Pacers will have to turn to ex-Maverick Ian Mahinmi, who did well in 26 minutes of action Friday.

 

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Nowitzki Rebound Game

It’s not often you see Dirk Nowitzki struggle like he did in Houston, going 4-for-18 on the night, so it’s safe to say the Big German should be looking to break out of his 1-game slump fairly quickly, and he will look to do just that tonight. Despite the rough night on Saturday, Nowitzki is still averaging 18.8 points-per-game and is shooting over 50 percent on the year, including 42% from long distance. Fear not Mavericks fans. Dirk will be just fine, and he will make his presence felt early tonight!