Dallas Mavericks: Dwight Powell makes positive impact in first game of season

Dallas Mavericks center Dwight Powell returned from a hamstring injury on Oct. 29 against the Denver Nuggets. See how he performed here.

The Dallas Mavericks won two of their first three games of the 2019-2020 season. More impressively, they did it without starting center Dwight Powell. He suffered a hamstring injury on Oct. 5 that sidelined him for nearly four weeks.

The Mavs got positive news prior to tipoff on Oct. 29. Powell was back in the lineup and starting against the Denver Nuggets. Not a moment too soon as they had to defend against Nikola Jokic and Paul Millsap inside one of the toughest places to play in the NBA.

Here is what Coach Rick Carlisle had to say about Powell in his pregame presser.

It was fantastic to see the 6’10 big man back on the floor. Here is a closer look at how the game shook out.

Gets to the line early

Powell scored the first Mavericks point against the Nuggets on Tuesday. He drew two fouls and shot four free throws in the first 90 seconds of the game.

Powell also grabbed a hustle rebound. That energy will be a massive boost to the Mavs. He finished with two points, two rebounds, and one turnover in six and a half minutes before heading to the bench in the first quarter.

Bringing the highlights

Powell entered back in the game to start the second period. During his second rotation, he showed off his ability as a lob threat.

https://twitter.com/dallasmavs/status/1189359992022994945

Fans know Powell is a monster dunker and target at the rim. He is also the team’s best roll man. Powell provides an offensive boost for Dallas.

First half only

Dwight Powell only played in the first half on Tuesday. He finished with four points, four rebounds, and one turnover in 14 minutes of action. Not bad for his first taste of the season after missing nearly four weeks with a hamstring injury.

The Dallas Mavericks picked up a thrilling 109-106 victory in Denver as well. The team has won three of their first four games and looks ready to make the postseason.

Powell will be a key piece in that success. The Mavs have played well without him but will be significantly better with him. It was fantastic to see Powell back on the court.

Mavericks supporters should be excited about the next game. The Lakers invade American Airlines Center. LeBron James and Anthony Davis will matchup against Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis in a battle of playoff hopefuls on Friday. It will certainly be a fun evening. Expect Dwight Powell to play around 20 minutes as he continues to ramp up his playing time.