Dallas Mavericks: 3 Takeaways From Loss to Bucks

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Oct 8, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) moves the ball against Dallas Mavericks guard Wesley Matthews (23) at the Kohl Center. Milwaukee defeated Dallas 88-74. Mandatory Credit: Mary Langenfeld-USA TODAY Sports /

The Dallas Mavericks went into Madison, Wisconsin on Saturday where they lost to a younger, more athletic Milwaukee Bucks team led by Jabari Parker.

The Dallas Mavericks came into their third preseason game with a 1-1 record after losing to the New Orleans Pelicans and beating the Charlotte Hornets last Monday night.

With Dirk Nowitzki, Salah Mejri, and Devin Harris still sitting out the preseason, the Mavs went into Saturday a little short-handed against the youthful Bucks team. Although short-handed, Andrew Bogut and Deron Williams both made their preseason debuts in Wisconsin.

For Dallas, it was somewhat of a normal rotation for the majority of the first half as they had four of their normal starters that will surround Dirk Nowitzki in the regular season. With Dwight Powell taking the place of Nowitzki, the Mavs rolled out two different units in the first half.

At practice earlier in the week, Head Coach Rick Carlisle mentioned the Bucks as the anti-Mavericks as they are “young and fast” and the Mavericks are “old and experienced.” Saturday proved some of that statement as the Bucks won 88-74.

The Bucks were led by Jabari Parker as the youngster put on a show Saturday night. With improved ball handling and top-notch athleticism, Parker’s presence was felt on both ends of the court. He finished the night with 21 points on 24 minutes.

For the Mavs, here are three takeaways from the game…

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