Mavericks: 5 takeaways from preseason win over Clippers

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Dallas Mavericks, Kristaps Porzingis / Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Takeaway from Dallas Mavericks preseason game vs. Clippers: 2. KP’s defense

Kristaps Porzingis looks healthy and ready for a career year. Fans know he appeared to be a step slow last season after returning from meniscus surgery, but that lateral quickness is back. He moved better in the preseason opener and took it to another level against the Clippers. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon tweeted this during the first half.

At the risk of overreacting to preseason action, Kristaps Porzingis is much more active and (positively) impactful defensively than he was at any point last season.
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) October 9, 2021

Porzingis played exceptionally well in his 19 minutes of action on Oct. 8 as he finished with 15 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and three blocks. He was five of eight from the field and looks refreshed with a less rigid role in the offense. KP got to the hoop for this dunk too.

Halftime Highlight ?

? SZN pic.twitter.com/cBju7IF89c
— Dallas Mavericks (@dallasmavs) October 9, 2021

KP’s defense was impressive on Friday night. Yes, the Clippers were down multiple rotation pieces, but the Unicorn was moving his feet better, creating turnovers, and being a force at the rim.

The Dallas Mavericks need Kristaps Porzingis protecting the rim and controlling the paint if they are going to jump into title contention this season. Early signs suggest that KP is healthy and ready to be the Unicorn again, but his play is something to watch throughout the season.