Dereck Lively II’s career-best game, and 2 more observations from the Mavericks’ 2nd-straight win

January 9, 2025

Jan 9, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II (2) and guard Quentin Grimes (5) celebrate during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

1. The offense played quick, it performed sloppily, it often strained and heaved. There were turnovers where Dallas couldn't make it past half court, possessions that extended past 20 seconds with virtually no advantages gained. But the Dallas Maveri...