Dallas Mavericks: Tim Hardaway Jr. keeps improving

Dallas Mavericks guard Tim Hardaway Jr. continues to improve his numbers. Here is a look back at the 11 games since he returned from injury.

The Dallas Mavericks traded for Tim Hardaway Jr. on Jan. 31, 2019. He was part of the deal that brought Kristaps Porzingis to Dallas. Most viewed THJ as a throw-in. The Knicks wanted off his hefty salary and player option for the 2020-2021 season.

Hardaway Jr. has turned into a lot more than that, though. He struggled with a stress reaction in his leg last season. The 27-year-old had his year cut short as he opted for surgery to address the issue. THJ returned healthy this season and is proving his skill.

Hardaway Jr. started the year in a bench role where he was playing just over 20 minutes per game. He made his first start in game 14 and has not looked back since. Playing next to Luka Doncic has unlocked Hardaway’s shooting. He is averaging 14.2 points and 2.7 3-pointers made for the season on 39.8 percent shooting from downtown.

THJ is not stopping there, though. He produced his best numbers of the season in the last 11 games. Let us take a look at that sample.

Can’t miss

Tim Hardaway Jr. suffered a hamstring injury in the first quarter against the Lakers on Dec. 29. He missed the rest of that night and the next three games as he recovered. Hardaway Jr. returned on Jan. 6 against the Bulls with 15 points in 21.5 minutes on eight field goal attempts.

That kicked off an incredible run for the 27-year-old. Since returning, THJ is averaging 15.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.9 3-pointers made in 29.5 minutes per game. That is on 46.6 percent from the field and 44.4 percent on his threes over 11 contests.

Hardaway Jr. has stepped up his rebounding as the Mavericks have gone small after the season-ending injury to Dwight Powell. He also continues to get and hit open shots. Luka and KP are drawing the defense, and THJ makes them pay.

Here is a look at his highlights from the Mavs win over the Oklahoma City Thunder on Jan. 27.

The Dallas Mavericks have also won seven of those 11 games. The step forward from Tim Hardaway Jr. has helped them become one of the most efficient offenses in NBA history.

He has an $18.9 million player option for next season. The front office is hoping he opts in at this point. THJ has been everything the Mavs could have hoped for and more this season. Expect it continue down the stretch.