3 studs, 2 duds from Mavericks' second-straight preseason loss to Timberwolves

After having a slow start in their first preseason game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on October 5, the Dallas Mavericks struggled out of the gate once again on Saturday. Dallas ended up losing 104-96, marking their second-straight loss.

It was Dallas' second and final game of their two-game series against Minnesota in Abu Dhabi, and Dallas still struggled with some of the same things that they struggled with last game.

Starting slow out of the preseason is normal, but Dallas has to get out of this funk before the regular season starts. Despite struggling on the floor, Dallas is getting plenty of bonding time in, as they've helped with a basketball camp, rode camels through the desert, and played plenty of NBA 2K24.

3 studs, 2 duds from Mavericks' second-straight preseason loss to Timberwolves

The game on Saturday was unwatchable at times, but fans are just happy that Mavs basketball is back.

Here are three studs and two duds from the Mavs' second-straight preseason loss.

Honorable mention: Grant Williams

Despite only finishing with six points, Mavs forward Grant Williams deserves a spot on this list.

Williams always seemed to be in the right spot on defense, and he was always ready to shoot. He will need to convert more of his 3-point attempts during the regular season, as he will be getting countless open looks playing next to Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, but his play in the preseason is a decent start.

He also has displayed some streakiness, both good and bad, and once Williams cans a three, another one typically follows.

Williams brings the intensity, physicality, and leadership that the Mavs need, and fans should be excited about Dallas' new 3-and-D wing.