Dallas Mavericks Take On Damian Lilliard and the Trail Blazers Tonight

The Mavericks and Dennis Smith Jr. face Damian Lillard and the Trail Blazers one last time this season in the next to last home game.

With only five games left in the regular season, the chances to see Dennis Smith Jr. match up against premier point guards this year are almost gone. Tonight at 7:30 p.m. CT, he’ll be playing against All-NBA candidate Lillard at the AAC.

Dallas lost the two previous games against Portland this year, and Lillard was a big reason why. He scored 31 and 29 in the two January contests, and added 12 assists. Smith played well, too, but only scored 21 and 18, respectively. But even if Smith plays Lilliard to a draw, the Mavericks will still probably struggle defensively.

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In the two previous games, Dallas had the perimeter defense of Wes Matthews to contend with Portland shooting guard C.J. McCollum. Now, Matthews is out for the year with a leg injury, and the Mavericks don’t have a replacement. McCollum has average 23 points per game against Dallas this season.

Aaron Harrison could see some time defending him, which will be a good opportunity to impress Rick Carlisle with some grit and defense. Jalen Jones and Kyle Collinsworth could also see some possessions against McCollum.

J.J. Barea returns after a four game absence for personal reasons, according to Mavs.com writer Dwain Price. His veteran presence will help Smith slow down Lillard.

Nerlens Noel will be out, serving a five game suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program, according to Yahoo’s Shams Charania.

Dwight Powell is most able to replicate Noel’s rim protection, but I think the Mavericks will look to Salah Mejri to handle Jusef Nurkic. Mejri has the strength to handle Nurkic’s bulk down low. I also wouldn’t be surprised to see Johnathan Motley get some time against the Blazers’ center.

Next: Looking Back at Mavs in the NCAA Tournament

As mentioned above, this is the next to last home game for Dallas, so if you haven’t caught a game in person yet, head down to the AAC tonight. As always, follow @thesmokingcuban on Twitter for updates and highlights.