Mavericks blown out by Nuggets: Why fans should not panic

The Dallas Mavericks had won three straight, but Friday’s game was an uphill battle. Kristaps Porzingis missed his second straight contest with a back injury, and the Mavs were on the second night of a back-to-back as they traveled to Denver to face the Nuggets.

Winning in the Mile High City is always difficult, but it is that much tougher with no rest. The Nuggets were 25-11 at home last season, and have won 85 of their 114 games at the Ball Arena over the last three years. The altitude makes it a challenge, and Dallas going on the second night of their first back-to-back of the season made it a near-impossible challenge.

The shorthanded Mavericks were dominated by the Nuggets on Friday night. Their 12-point third quarter was the dagger as Denver ran away with the game. Here are a few more reasons why Mavs fans should not panic about the loss.

Why fans should not panic about Dallas Mavericks loss to Nuggets

The Mavs could not buy a bucket on Friday night. They were seven of 30 from 3-point range through the first three quarters and shot under 30 percent from the field. Dallas just could not find their shots in Denver.

Luka Doncic was just five of 18 in his 26 minutes of action. He still produced 16 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals, but the Mavericks were outscored by 32 points during his time on the floor. The 22-year-old did not have his legs on Friday night in what was a rare off night for the Mavs superstar.

Dallas Mavericks fans should not take anything away from Friday’s loss. It was disappointing, but the Denver Nuggets are one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Yes, they dominated the game, but Dallas was shorthanded and worn out. The Mavs will look to bounce back in an early tipoff on Sunday against the Sacramento Kings. Do not miss it.