I don’t know quite what to say. I wanted to write about how Tyson Chandler’s return to the lineup and his energy spearheaded a Mavericks victory and finally ended a losing streak dating back to 2007 at New Orleans Arena.
But this isn’t about the former Hornet Chandler’s double-double performance of 16 points and 13 rebounds. I thought that when the game was tied at 52, and Chandler scored nine of 11 points during a 2:14 stretch in the third quarter to create a nine-point lead at 62-53, the takeover would commence. The Mavs still maintained a 10-point advantage at the end of the quarter and rarely blow leads in the final 12 minutes.
But it has happened twice in the last three games. And today’s method to the madness may have been worse than Sunday’s. (see previous blog entry) The Hornets precisely executed a 20-10 run, mainly on the shots of Jarrett Jack and David West, in the last 4:24 to upset the Mavs. For the contest, Jack and West finished with 21 and 16 points respectively.
Although Jack was a leading scorer for the Hornets, it was his final three points that really broke the Mavs’ hearts. Out of a New Orleans timeout, Jason Kidd was called for a foul on Jack in the act of shooting with 8.4 seconds to go. After a review, Jack made all three foul shots. Dirk Nowitzki’s last shot bounced off the rim.
Rick Carlisle says free throws can win a game. But this one was really difficult to digest. At least the Knicks will be in town in less than 24 hours.
Notes
- Shawn Marion sat out the fourth quarter with sore ribs after a flagrant hit.
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