Grading the Mavericks performance in 2021

Grading the Dallas Mavericks offense in 2021

The Mavs were an elite offense for two straight years before head coach Jason Kidd arrived. Luka Doncic is one of the best pick and roll ball-handlers in the world, and Rick Carlisle’s five-out system maximized the space on the floor for Dallas to attack.

The Mavericks have fallen to 17th in offensive rating this season. Kidd has given players more freedom to attack, but it has not always worked out. Jalen Brunson is having a career year, but the team has struggled to hit threes because of their floor spacing issues. Dallas is tenth in threes attempted per game, but 25th 3-point percentage.

Luka and company also take the fewest shots per game in the restricted area this season at just 20.7. Teams are selling out to stop Doncic and forcing his supporting cast to knock down shots.

Dallas Mavericks offensive grade for 2021: C-minus

Luka Doncic was otherworldly in the playoffs and the Olympic Games in 2021, but he did not return to Dallas in peak physical condition to start the season. The Mavs offense has performed below expectations as the team adjusted to coach Kidd’s system.

When Dallas gets healthy, their offense should improve dramatically. Doncic needs to work his way into shape, and the team must communicate better to maximize the space on the floor. The Mavs have to create more looks at the rim, and they need to knock down jumpers to force defenses to adjust to them.