5 adjustments Dallas Mavericks must make in playoff Game 3 vs. Suns

Adjustment Dallas Mavericks must make in Game 3 vs. Suns: 2. Mix up defenses

The Suns have had their way with the Mavs' defense in the first two games. Dallas was riding high after holding the Utah Jazz, who had the highest offensive rating in the NBA during the regular season, under 101 points in four of the six contests, but the defense has not translated to this series.

Phoenix attacked Luka Doncic relentlessly in the second half of Game 2 on their way to 71 points and a blowout victory. The 23-year-old superstar carries a heavy offensive burden, so the Mavericks cannot afford to have him spending tons of energy defending Chris Paul and Devin Booker.

Expect Dallas to switch up their defensive scheme in Game 3. There will likely be some zone, some pre-switching, and some double teaming on Friday night. The key will be keeping the Suns on their toes and not allowing them to adjust to one specific look. Coach Jason Kidd must mix things up and have Phoenix guessing if the Mavericks are going to hold the Suns under 120 points in Game 3.

The Suns are going to come out firing on Friday night because they know a win virtually ends the series. They will hunt Luka Doncic on defense and try to break the Mavericks in Game 3. How will Dallas answer?