Dallas Mavericks: Why Barnes and Matthews Will Pair Nicely

By Kohl Rast
Dec 30, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Wesley Matthews (23) reacts after scoring during the game against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2015; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Mavericks guard Wesley Matthews (23) reacts after scoring during the game against the Golden State Warriors at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jun 13, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) and Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (13) go after a loose ball during the fourth quarter in game five of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 13, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Harrison Barnes (40) and Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (13) go after a loose ball during the fourth quarter in game five of the NBA Finals at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

3.They are Both Defensive Minded

This one is a bit obvious as Wesley Matthews has been known for his defense since he started in the league. As a tough, gritty defender, Matthews is capable of guarding multiple positions. That helped the Mavericks a lot last season because of Deron Williams’ and Chandler Parsons’ defensive weaknesses.

Harrison Barnes was also one of the stronger defenders in the league with his length and speed and intelligence on the court. With those two complimenting each other on the wings, we will be ready to hang with more teams defensively than we are used to.

Even though they each certainly have their offensive deficiencies, the defensive side of the ball is going to make each game interesting. The Mavericks and their fans haven’t been a very defensive minded team in a long time and that is all going to change now. Rick Carlisle’s offensive sets will be excellent to watch as well.

Next: ESPN Mock Draft has Mavericks Taking Marques Bolden

No matter what the case, it is going to be a fun season for these two players. I firmly believe the Mavericks are going to get a dangerous duo with Matthews and Barnes. Keep an eye on them as the season comes around and enjoy the show that Dallas will bring in 2016-2017.

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