Dallas Mavericks: Three matchups to watch vs. Toronto Raptors

The Dallas Mavericks and Toronto Raptors face off in a battle of the East and West, the North and South and two of the most exciting players in the NBA. This game is more than just Kawhi Leonard vs. Luka Doncic, though.

The Dallas Mavericks are finally back to their winning ways, thanks in large part to a short stint back at the American Airlines Center. The return of Dennis Smith Jr. has played a big role too, as he has combined for 36 points in the two games he has been back for. Things appear to be getting better between the Mavs and DSJ, but only time will tell for sure.

Tonight, the Mavs look to keep their recent win streak alive against the third best team in the league and second best in the East, the Toronto Raptors. Toronto is led by Kawhi Leonard, Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry. The Raptors have been impressive this year, with a 36-15 record. Kawhi Leonard has been especially impressive, which surprises no one.

Here are three matchups to keep an eye on for the game between the Mavs and Raptors.

Luka vs. Raptors defenders

It will be very interesting to see who the Raptors choose to throw at stellar rookie, Luka Doncic. They have perhaps the best wing defender in the NBA in Kawhi Leonard and could use him to slow down the Slovenian sensation. The big issue with that would be that Luka has become very good at drawing fouls on the people defending him. The Raptors would have a tough time without their star player.

Other options that the Raptors could try defensively include Danny Green, Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby if need be. Green and Siakam are both excellent defenders as well and could get the call to try to lock up Luka, but I expect to see Kawhi on him to start things off.

One thing to pay attention to is how much of a double-team Luka might draw. With multiple high-class defenders on the Raptors roster and Luka’s impressive passing ability, they may elect to guard the Mavericks as straight up as possible. This could open Luka up for some easier scoring opportunities every once and awhile.

Kawhi vs. Dorian Finney-Smith

It is hard to imagine that the Mavs wouldn’t put Dodo on Kawhi at some point in the game tonight. Although Wesley Matthews and Harrison Barnes are both solid wing defenders and will likely get their time on Kawhi, but I believe the Mavs best wing defender is Dorian. Dodo will have a big task in front of him when he does get the matchup, but I think he will do well.

Dodo has been great this year, tightening up his defense on a regular basis and shooting the ball better and better over time. He has been especially good attacking the rim on the offensive boards and working hard to get important rebounds.

Kawhi will get his tonight, because he is one of the most consistent players in the NBA. Still, Dodo and others will do what they can to make him work for it each and every play.

Dennis Smith Jr. vs. Kyle Lowry

Dennis has been extra aggressive since coming back from his absence, and that aggressiveness could be very important against Lowry. DSJ is looking as explosive as ever over the past two games and is attacking the rim with regularity. His defense is still good as well, but he will have his hands full with Kyle Lowry.

Lowry is actually having a tough year so far compared to where he was just a few years ago. The decline started last year and has continued in that direction so far this season. Despite his numbers being down, Lowry is still a dangerous player on the offensive end and Smith will have to play him tight to keep him from beating the Mavs up.

The matchup will be a good one as Dallas needs Dennis to contribute on offense for the team to be as good as it is capable of. Stopping Lowry will also be a key to the Mavericks game plan against the Raptors.

The Mavs lost the first matchup of the season to Toronto on October 26th, 116-107. Dallas will look for revenge in the final matchup between the two teams for the season. The game will tip-off early tonight at 6:00 central time at the American Airlines Center.