De’Anthony Melton knows what the Dallas Mavericks want to do Monday night. The Golden State Warriors have to make sure they don’t let them do it.
“Transition defense is huge — they’re going to try to get out and run,” Melton said at shootaround Monday. “We’ve got to limit turnovers because that fuels their transition game. Lately, we’ve been doing a better job taking care of the ball, and we need to keep that up. It’s going to be a matchup between two strong defensive teams, so ball security is critical.”
Golden State (33-38) wraps up a six-game road trip Monday night in Dallas, having gone 1-4 so far with losses at New York, Boston, Detroit, and Atlanta. The Warriors arrive at American Airlines Center banged up, without Stephen Curry, Al Horford, and Moses Moody. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. on Peacock and NBC Sports Network.
The Mavericks (23-48) have lost three straight and 11 consecutive home games. A loss on Monday would officially eliminate them from postseason contention.
Ball Security Key Against Dallas Mavericks
Melton’s emphasis on turnovers wasn’t accidental. Dallas has leaned on transition opportunities all season, and a Warriors team still finding its footing without Curry can’t afford to hand them easy buckets.
“It doesn’t really matter who brings the ball up — it’s about keeping the flow of the offense,” Melton said. “Sometimes pressure can wear on one guy, so sharing that responsibility helps. On our team, multiple players can initiate, which is a strength. The focus is just getting into the offense quickly and finding the best shot.”
With Curry sidelined, Brandin Podziemski has taken on the bulk of the ball-handling responsibilities over the last 13 games, averaging 14.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.0 assists as a starter. Melton has watched that development closely.
“He’s showing that he wants to lead and take that next step, which is the most important part,” Melton said. “For me, I came into the league as a point guard and eventually found comfort as a combo guard. That helped me understand the game better — reads, spacing, everything. For him, it’s about constant work, listening to others, and figuring out what’s most effective for his game.”
Asked whether Podziemski profiles more as a point guard going forward, Melton kept it simple.
“He leans more toward being a point guard, but in our system, it’s fluid,” he said. “Guards share responsibilities. For me, I’ve grown more comfortable running point over time, but playing off the ball helped me develop that confidence and decision-making.”
Golden State Warriors Waiting on Stephen Curry
The bigger picture for Golden State remains Curry’s return. He hasn’t played since Feb. 1 due to a sore right knee and is scheduled for a re-evaluation Tuesday. The Warriors have gone 6-15 in his absence.
Melton said he stays in contact with Curry, but the message is consistent.
“The main thing is for him to take his time,” Melton said. “It’s about coming back healthy — physically and mentally. Everybody’s excited to see him back, and I know he’s eager too, but this process is probably tougher on him than anyone because of how much he loves to compete.”
The broader push, Melton said, hinges on getting healthy across the board.
“I think the biggest focus is on getting healthy. We’ve got guys working their way back through rehab, and that’s important for us,” he said. “The goal is to make a push with a full, healthy group, because that gives us the best chance to perform consistently.”
Golden State currently sits 8.5 games ahead of the New Orleans Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies for the 10th and final play-in spot in the Western Conference with 11 games remaining. They are two games behind both the Los Angeles Clippers and the Portland Trail Blazers in the standings. After Monday, the Warriors return home for seven of their final 10 games.
Respecting Cooper Flagg
Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg has been the central storyline of the Mavericks’ season despite the losses piling up. Melton isn’t overlooking him.
“He’s playing really well. He’s a big, physical player who competes hard,” Melton said. “When he attacks the rim, he’s getting there. He’s got a solid mid-range game and can score at all three levels. I really respect his competitive nature and overall skill set.”
Flagg has recorded double figures in points 57 times this season and posted his 11th double-double Saturday against the Clippers with 18 points and 10 rebounds. He missed his first career triple-double by two assists.
Melton also noted the role veterans play in keeping young players grounded through difficult stretches — something he’s observed on both sides.
“Having veterans is huge. This league can wear on you, so having guys who’ve been through it gives you someone to lean on,” he said. “Even for me, I still go to older players for advice. It’s important to have the right vets in the locker room — guys who can guide you through challenges.”
The Warriors and Mavericks split their two earlier meetings this season, each winning at home. Dallas took the most recent matchup 123-115 in January, with Flagg posting 21 points and 11 rebounds.
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