Dallas Mavericks: Dwight Powell energizes Canada to win over Greece

The Dallas Mavericks did not know what to expect from Dwight Powell this season. He had recovered from Achilles surgery, but how quickly would he return to form after one of the most devastating injuries in basketball? It took some time, but fans saw Powell have multiple standout games down the stretch.

The 29-year-old should be even better next season. He will be almost two years removed from the injury. Powell has two years and $22.8 million remaining on his contract. He is a leader for the Mavericks, but they need more on-court production next season.

Powell is playing for his native Canada in the Olympic Qualifying tournament. They had their first game on June 29 against Greece. Canada is the host and was significant favorites entering Tuesday’s game. Giannis Antetokounmpo is still playing with the Bucks in the NBA Playoffs, so the Greeks were without their star. Here is a closer look at Powell’s performance on June 29.

Dallas Mavericks big man Dwight Powell energizes Canada over Greece

Powell earned the start against Greece, and he scored the first basket on the game on a putback. The Greeks outscored Canada 23-19 in the first period as the hosts got off to a slow start. DP had four points after ten minutes.

Greece maintained its four-point lead at halftime. Powell produced four points, two rebounds, and one assist in his 10.2 minutes of first-half action. Head coach Rick Pitino had the underdogs playing hard, sinking threes, and leading at the break.

Powell’s energy was on full display in the third quarter. He grabbed multiple offensive rebounds and drew several fouls. Greece was forced to sit their top two big men because of foul issues. DP had eight points and five rebounds as Canada had a three-point lead after three quarters.

Canada held on to grab the 97-91 win in a hard fought game. Powell finished with 12 points, seven rebounds, and one assist in 26.6 minutes on Tuesday night. He made all four of his field goals and all four of his free throws against Greece.

Dwight Powell and Canada are back in action on June 30 against China. The hosts will be favored again. Powell is one of four Dallas Mavericks playing in the Olympic Qualifying Tournaments across the globe. Stay tuned to see if he can help Canada reach the games in Tokyo later this summer.