Dallas Mavericks: Dorian Finney-Smith shows rust in loss to Jazz

The Dallas Mavericks have won just two of their last eight games. It has been a rough start to the season made more difficult by a host of COVID issues. The Mavs are finally getting their talent back on the floor, though.

Dorian Finney-Smith, Josh Richardson, and Dwight Powell all returned from the league’s health and safety protocols on Jan. 27 against the Utah Jazz. The Mavericks were able to run out their projected starting five for the first time all season. Yes, Dallas was blown out by the Jazz, but they are still building.

Finney-Smith played his first game since Jan. 9. The 6’7 forward started but struggled against the Jazz. Here is a look at his performance and what to expect going forward.

Dorian Finney-Smith shows rust as Dallas Mavericks fall to Utah Jazz

The Mavs defensive struggles continued to Wednesday night. They have allowed over 112 points in eight straight games. Fans were expecting improvement with Finney-Smith and Richardson back on the floor, but it did not happen against the Jazz. Rudy Gobert dominated them in the paint, and Utah was unstoppable in the pick and roll.

It was fantastic to see Doe-Doe back on the floor. Expect his and the Mavericks’ defense to improve. Finney-Smith is no stranger to guarding some of the league’s best scorers. That will continue, and Dallas is still without Maxi Kleber, who is one of the team’s best defenders.

Dorian Finney-Smith showed rust on the offensive end of the floor. He made just one of eight field goals and missed five open 3-pointers on Wednesday night. Doe-Doe is just 15 of 49 from long range on the season. His 3-point improvements were a key part of the Mavericks offensive explosion last season. Finney-Smith will be looking to prove that was no fluke. Keep an eye on his shooting as the season progresses.

It was a rough first game back for Dorian Finney-Smith. The 27-year-old will take some time to regain his form. Fans should expect him to build on his breakout 2019-2020 season when he gets back to full strength. He will be a key piece for the Dallas Mavericks if they are going to make a deep playoff run this season. Stay tuned.