How do they defend KAT?

For my money, Karl-Anthony Towns is one of the most underrated players in basketball. Sure, he plays on a dreadful squad, but this dude has it. As fans of the Mavericks, I think we can all appreciate a sweet-shooting 7-footer and that’s precisely what Towns is.

That caliber of shooter at his position can create lots of strain for defenses. It requires greater attention to detail, solid personnel, and maybe even some creativity from the coaching staff. Do you switch? Pre-rotate? Soft-hedge? Whatever the scheme is, the Mavericks have to execute it to keep KAT under control.

Even if they don’t quite do that, they have more than enough offense to blow this team off the floor, but it’s a great test for their playoff defense regardless.

Can they minimize the supporting cast?

KAT going nuts is relatively fine. He does that a bunch and Minnesota still loses lots of games. Just kind of the nature of the beast thanks to their personnel.

Where you can get into hot water with this team is when you let the other guys start to warm up — the Malik Beasley’s, the Anthony Edwards’, & the Ricky Rubio’s of the world. All capable of taking over a game in their own unique way and Dallas had better be prepared for that. Just ask the Phoenix Suns, victim to Edwards 40-burger just last week.

Minimize the damage from these guys and the Mavericks should be just fine.

Can KP finally get going?

The last time Dallas saw this team, Kristaps Porzingis had maybe his best game of the season. A 27-point, 13 rebound, 6 block domination hopefully bodes well for a KP repeat performance.

Granted, Karl-Anthony Towns did not play in that game, but still. If the Mavericks can unlock that Porzingis with any sort of consistency they’re incredibly dangerous. Lord knows he needs after an underwhelming season.