Final Score: Mavericks 0-2 after 118-109 loss to Thunder

No Dirk, No Monta, No win for the Dallas Mavericks as they would fall 118-109 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Without Dirk Nowitzki and Monta Ellis, the Mavs would be able to showcase their big offseason signing. Chandler Parsons showed off his versatility, finishing the night with 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists in just 20 minutes of actions, but struggled to find his shot. He’d go 4-12 from the field and 1-6 from behind the arc.

Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant would combine for 25 points in 36 combined minutes in the game.

Mavs Forward Battle

Parsons and Nowitzki are obvious locks at the starting forward spots, but the minutes behind them are up for grabs. Al-Farouq Aminu (currently starting in Nowitzki’s place), Jae Crowder, and Richard Jefferson all had strong nights. The trio would combine for 51 points.

Off Target

The Mavs would shoot 11-36 (30.6%) from 3 and 41.3% from the floor overall. The Thunder would go 48.1% from the floor and shoot 46.2% from three. Former Maverick Anthony Morrow would go 4-7 from behind the arc and finish with a game high 21 points for OKC.

Thunder SG Battle

Andre Roberson got the start at SG for the Thunder and finished just 3 points. His competition for the starting spot – Jeremy Lamb and Morrow would have big nights. Lamb finished with 19 points and 11 rebounds in 30 minutes of action.

Dirk Speaks

Speaking of Roberson, Nowitzki was interviewed much of the third quarter and noted how Roberson informed him that he played against his father back in Germany ages ago. How time flies!

Injuries Adding Up

Late in the first quarter, Raymond Felton would suffer a bad ankle injury and would not be able to return. With Monta and Dirk already out, the Mavs plan to build chemistry is in a bind.

Fight For Roster Spot

Charlie Villanueva had a strong game one for the Mavs but would finish with just 3 points in the loss to OKC. Doron Lamb would seize his opportunity after not playing in the preseason opener. He would finish with 8 points 0n 3-3 shooting – hitting both of his three-point attempts.

Other Observations

The Mavs ball movement has looked exceptional at times and this is without Dirk stepping on the court. The Mavs are lined up to have a potent offense once all the pieces are able to mesh. The pick-n-roll/pop will be a huge weapon for the Mavs. Tyson Chandler and Brandan Wright should get plenty of highlight opportunities.

Point guard defense is still a big issue. Jameer Nelson wasn’t brought in to fix the issue, but he may actually be a downgrade over Jose Calderon. Welp…

Devin Harris had 7 points and 8 assists on the night. He seems ready to take over the 6th man role Jason Terry and Vince Carter have filled over the seasons.

Ricky Ledo filled in for Ellis and had 8 points on 3-7 shooting. He looked much better as the 4th/5th best Mav on the court than when he’s the team’s top player in garbage time.

The Mavs will host the Indiana Pacers on Sunday. Nowitzki is expected to make his preseason debut.

Tip-off will be at 6:30 pm CT.