The Dallas Mavericks captured their first victory in the post-Luka Doncic era on Thursday. The team finally overcame their kryptonite; they defeated the Boston Celtics 127-120 in dominant fashion. Klay Thompson had another hot start, scoring 23 points in the first half. He shot 60 percent from behind the 3-point line and seemed comfortable from every angle.
Newcomer Maxi Christie also contributed effectively. Christie dropped in 15 points and tallied six rebounds in 30 minutes. In the previous game, he also scored 15 points, as he shot 100 percent from beyond the arc. His immediate presence has been felt on the court. Christie is a savvy guard who plays hard-nosed defense. He does a great job scoring from all angles and isn't afraid to use his body in certain situations. It's clear Christie is exceeding all expectations.
Christie was brought in as part of the Luka Doncic-Anthony Davis trade. Fans did not know what to expect, as they assumed he was another role player. He has done a great job filling in the void Quentin Grimes left. He along with Davis could be the missing pieces to help Dallas get over the hump. Davis believes this statement, as he promises to bring "life" to a city grieving without its former superstar.
O'Neal believes Davis will from benefit playing his true position
One former NBA legend thinks Davis' proposition could become a reality. On his recent podcast "The Big Podcast with Shaq," Los Angeles Lakers legend Shaquille O'Neal explains that Dallas got the better end of the deal. He outlined how the team has a well-assembled roster that could help Davis reach his full potential. In simple terms, moving Davis into the power forward position benefits both sides.
"I think Dallas has probably won the trade because AD goes into a natural position with better players around him," O'Neal said. "I think Dallas definitely won the trade."
O'Neal is right in some aspects. The Doncic trade brought in an all-star veteran big man who can play well on both ends of the ball. For example, during the 2019-2020 season, Davis thrived in the power forward position. He averaged 26.1 points per game, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks. His dominance helped the Lakers claim their 17th NBA championship.
However, since the Lakers' championship run Davis has mostly been playing the center spot. Davis has come to dislike the position though. He has expressed displeasure with the Lakers, begging his former team to acquire a big man to help alleviate the pressure. His wish may be coming true in Dallas. Coach Jason Kidd outlined the team's plan to move Davis into the power forward spot, alongside Daniel Gafford or Dereck Lively II once everyone is healthy.
Assuming the claim above is true, Dallas could be on pace to have one of the top frontcourts with Davis transitioning into his former role. This could make the Mavs one of the most dangerous groups up front, as it would be difficult for opposing teams to score down low. It would also help the team try out new offensive skills like lobs and post-up moves inside.
Adding Davis opens the window Nico Harrison mentioned in his press conference. It keeps Dallas competitive within the next three to four years. Dallas' new frontcourt also allows the team to compete with some of the top contending teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Boston Celtics, and Denver Nuggets.
If Davis lives up to his expectations, it's possible he could be the big man Dallas has been missing since Dirk Nowitzki retired. Davis has the chance to win Mavs fans over on Saturday when he makes his debut against the Houston Rockets. Davis will have big shoes to fill if he hopes to prove doubters wrong and bring the Mavs back to the promised land.
