Dallas Mavericks: 2 studs and 1 dud in win over Raptors

The Dallas Mavericks had a nightmare start to the 2021-2022 season as they were blown out by the Hawks in Atlanta, and the team wanted nothing more than to bounce back on Saturday night against the Toronto Raptors.

Luka Doncic and the Mavs got off to a rough start that saw the Raptors get out to an 11-2 lead, and fans were panicking. The offense struggled in the opener and things looked no better, but Dallas did not quit.

The Mavs finally found their groove in the second half with Doncic conducting the show as they picked up the 103-95 victory in Toronto. Dallas scored 58 over the final 24 minutes to earn the victory, but which players stood out?

2 studs and 1 dud from the Dallas Mavericks win over the Raptors

It took a team effort to defeat the Raptors. Dorian Finney-Smith kept Dallas within striking distance in the first half by grabbing four offensive rebounds. Dwight Powell chipped 11 points, including nine in the opening 24 minutes to help the Mavs stay connected.

Kristaps Porzingis finished with 18 points and four blocks as his defense and lateral mobility look significantly better this season.  He also produced a vintage Unicorn play that fans will have to rewatch to believe it happened.

The other two starters took over in the second half and lifted the Dallas Mavericks to their first victory of the 2021-2022 season. Here is a look at two studs and one dud from the win in Toronto.