Gibson, Anderson Shine in Mavericks Summer League Loss to Bulls

The Dallas Mavericks fell to the Chicago Bulls in the second round of the Las Vegas Summer League tonight 86-73. But even with this loss, what can be taken away from this game? 

The Mavs Summer League team played earlier tonight in their second round game against the Chicago Bulls, but came up short 86-73. Although Dallas walked away from another loss, there are some positives to take away from this Summer League matchup.

Early on in this game, the Mavericks stood with the higher ranked Bulls team, being led by guard Jonathan Gibson and forward Justin Anderson. On the other side of the floor, forward Bobby Portis was the leading man for the Bulls, finishing with 19 points, 8 rebounds and shooting 9-13 FG from the field.

In the first half, the Mavericks were able to find their offensive touch and were shooting a good percentage from the field early on. As the defensive intensity picked up for the Bulls, the Mavericks began to shoot poorly, finishing 24-64 from the field with a percentage of 37%.

As the game continued, the Mavericks stayed with Chicago until the end, but could never really take the lead. Dallas had difficulties getting stops down the stretch and made some questionable decisions and mistakes, which led to a Chicago Bulls Summer League win.

But even with this loss, there are plenty of things to be happy about as a Mavericks fan:

1. Jonathan Gibson is emerging as a leader.

The 28-year old guard originally from California really put on a show for Dallas Mavericks fans tonight against the Bulls. Playing 33 minutes and finishing with 14 points, 3 assists and shooting 5-13 from the field, Gibson had several flashy highlight plays that should make Mavs’ fans excited for Gibson to take a Dallas court in the regular season.

Gibson showcased his ability to get to the basket with shifty speed and incredible handles. Not only did JG show his scoring skills, but he also showed he can run and handle an offense and be a facilitator. During this game, I found myself on 2-3 occasions marveling at his passing ability and court vision.

Overall, I felt like this loss against the Bulls really spotlighted Gibson’s best attributes, but with all the depth the Mavericks have at the point, I don’t know if there is a spot for him on this team come the regular season. I really hope there is, though.

2. Justin Anderson: two steps forward, one step back. 

As a Mavericks fan, Justin Anderson is one of my favorite players on the team, not only on the Summer League team. I think he has a ton of tools to be a higher level player for Dallas for year to come. But so far in Summer League play, he’s had some questionable and concerning moments.

The purpose for Summer League, in my opinion, is to work on improving your game for when the regular season rolls around, especially if you’re expecting to be a part of the final roster. But, in several Summer League contests, Anderson has had some head-scratching moments.

Tonight against the Bulls, several times throughout the game, Anderson was seen shooting extremely out of range, Steph Curry-like three pointers, which were not only contested, but early in the shot clock.

Also, throughout the Summer League, Anderson has been shooting an extremely poor percentage (mid-30’s) and tonight was no different. Anderson finished with 17 points, 4 rebounds, shooting 4-13 from the field and 3-10 from beyond the arch. Granted, he still finished leading the team in points, but from an efficiency aspect, he didn’t play up to pair.

Another note for Anderson is I’d like to see him change-up the direction of which he drives to the basket. During this game, Anderson was great taking the ball to the basket and playing a point forward position, but he needs to work on going to his right, instead of constantly going to his left, as he might get predictable for opponents in the future.

On a more positive note, I loved how hard Anderson was playing and running the floor. Even though he seems to be the leader of this team, he leads by example and was on the floor fighting for loose balls on several occasions. Anderson’s hustle and grittiness is something I really love about him, along with being a freak athlete.

Overall, JA is still a promising member of the Dallas ball club and I expect big things from him this season, but for him to reach that next level, he needs to work on his decision-making.

3. When AJ Hammons is on the floor, the Mavs are a different team.

One thing I clearly noticed about tonight’s loss against the Bulls is that when Hammons in on the floor, the Mavericks are a much better team. Defensively, Hammons shows signs of becoming a dominate “shot-changer” and can be a force for the Mavericks on the defensive end, as a backup to Andrew Bogut, if he makes the team.

Admittedly, there are times when Hammons is undisciplined and can’t stay on his feet, but that will fade as he gets used to the speed of the NBA. In 18 minutes of play, Hammons snagged 5 rebounds and scored 5 points for the Mavericks, but defensively, he was there changing shots and playing good, solid defense.

At times throughout this Summer League season, Hammons didn’t look interested in the game, if he didn’t get the ball, but tonight he was focused on playing his role and guarded the pick and roll very well.

As a whole, I felt like the Mavericks played well. In the end, the poor shot selections and too much isolation ball hindered Dallas’ chances at advancing in the Summer League tournament. Dallas was caught playing a back-to-back against a fresher Bulls team, which didn’t help matters either.

Next: Mavericks Sign Quincy Acy

The Mavericks will play the Golden State Warriors Summer League team tomorrow night at 9 PM (EST).