Inside the Mavericks' Early Struggles: Clutch Failures, Slow Starts, Dončić’s Scoring Breakdown, and More

The Mavericks face early season struggles with clutch failures, slow starts, and Luka Dončić’s off-ball adjustment as they seek to find their rhythm and regain form.

Photo via Nick White

SALT LAKE CITY — The Dallas Mavericks are facing a rough stretch, having dropped three consecutive games by razor-thin margins. Each loss has its frustrating moments, with missed opportunities to potentially avoid the outcome. Each loss combines to have diminished the Mavs’ record to 5-6 through 11 games despite ranking 10th in offensive and defensive rating.

On Friday, a foul against Jusuf Nurkić with 0.1 seconds remaining in regulation led to a game-winning free throw instead of a chance to compete in overtime to avoid a loss. On Sunday, the Mavericks couldn't contain Nikola Jokić for multiple putbacks, ultimately falling to the Denver Nuggets. Then, despite holding a late lead in Golden State, Stephen Curry’s explosive 12-point finish in clutch time spoiled Klay Thompson’s return. Each game occurred against formidable Western Conference contenders, proving Dallas has work to do to get back on track.

Injuries have also hampered the Mavericks early on. Dereck Lively II returned from a four-game absence caused by a right shoulder sprain. P.J. Washington has no timetable for his return from a knee injury but has progressed. Dante Exum will miss months due to a right wrist injury. Meanwhile, Dončić has fought through a left groin strain while logging heavy minutes, playing 41.0 minutes per game over the two games with the injury. Regardless, plenty can be improved from an execution standpoint with the available players.

Dallas Has Faltered in Clutch Games

One of Dallas’s biggest hurdles has been its struggles in clutch situations. The team is 1-5 in games where the score remains within five points in the last five minutes, placing them among the league’s lowest in late-game execution. Head coach Jason Kidd has emphasized the need to improve their ability to finish games.

“In the last two minutes, we have to get better,” Kidd stated after Tuesday’s narrow NBA Cup loss to Golden State. “In each of the last three games, we’ve turned it over and struggled with rebounds in crucial moments.”