3 fire takeaways from Mavericks preseason loss to Magic

Takeaway from Dallas Mavericks preseason win over Magic: 2. Wood adds dimension

The Mavs traded a first-round pick and four players that were outside their playoff rotation for Christian Wood this offseason. They struggled to rebound in the playoffs, and the front office was intrigued by the big man’s unique skill set.

Wood had a 16-point double-double in the preseason-opening win, but the 6’10 forward was even better against the Magic. He is an outstanding pick-and-roll partner for Luka Doncic that can space the floor, handle the ball, and knock down shots from anywhere on the floor. See Wood going into his bag below.

C-Wood finished with 23 points on eight of 12 shooting from the field, including three 3-pointers in his 19 minutes of action against the Magic.

Dallas did not have a big man that could handle the ball last season. Fans know Wood is capable of averaging 20 points per game, and he rebounds well. The 6’10 forward certainly gives the team’s offense a new dimension, and he is a threat the defense has to take seriously. Expect to see plenty of monster games from C-Wood this season as Luka draws the defense away for him to feast.

Christian Wood's make-or-break skill will be defense. He played some four and five on Friday night, but he struggled to defend either position in his previous stops. Can he step up the defense in Dallas? It is something to watch closely this season.