Preview: Dallas Mavericks Head to Minny Looking for a Win

After losing their ninth game of the season, the Dallas Mavericks head to Minnesota trying to turn things around.

The Mavericks are 10 games into the 2017-2018 NBA season and it’s been a dreadful start, to say the least.

Dallas sits at 1-9, the worst record in the league. As a MFFL, that was difficult to type; the worst record in the league. Yikes.

I wish I could say there was light at the end of the tunnel, but the schedule doesn’t get any easier as the Mavs battle it out in Minnesota tonight against the Timberwolves. After a slow start by their expectations, Minnesota has won three games in a row and are starting to find their groove.

By reuniting Jimmy Butler with his former coach Tom Thibodeau, Minnesota has a young three-headed monster in the making, along with Andrew Wiggins and Karl Anthony-Towns. The three combine to average over 58 points per game, which totals over 50% of the T-Wolves offense.

Not to forget point guard Jeff Teague, who is a respected 13 points and 7.8 assists per contest.

More from The Smoking Cuban

• Dallas Mavericks: Why Luka Doncic is underpaid in $207 million extension
• Dallas Mavericks: Tyrell Terry injures groin in summer league loss to Jazz
• Mavericks: How to maximize Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis pairing
• Dallas Mavericks: Did they do enough this offseason to jump into title contention?
• Mavericks: What to watch for as Dallas faces Utah Jazz in summer league

To stop this Minnesota offense, the Mavs must have their head on a swivel as the Timberwolves are averaging 116 points during their three game winning streak. Though defense has been a struggle for Dallas, scoring the basketball hasn’t been any easier, averaging just 97.8 points per game, which ranks 28th in the league.

What to watch for tonight:

I’d expect to see consistent minutes from Salah Mejri after his effectiveness last night against the Pelicans. Mejri scored 7 points, 13 rebounds, and an impressive 5 blocks in 22 minutes. His energy is unmatched and should be utilized with someone like Anthony-Towns on the floor.

Offensively, Dallas needs Harrison Barnes to shine. He’s been shooting well as of late after a slow start, which the Mavs can’t afford to have. With All-Star caliber wings across from him like Butler and Wiggins, Barnes must attack the basket and exploit the 28th ranked Minnesota defense.

Next: Salah Mejri Will Give Energy If He Gets the Chance

Tip-off is at 7:00pm. Go Mavs!