Dirk Nowitzki

[GiovaniMarcon]

The Heat should have put the clamps down and won that game. The fact that they lost is inexcusable. The Mavs were lucky to come back by virtue of Dirk Nowitzki's beastliness but also because Wade/James/et al were overconfident and choked in the final few minutes.

The Heat will probably address the overconfidence issue in the next games, and probably they won't showboat prematurely because they learned their lesson against Nowitzki, who is a straight-up killer in the clutch.

The Mavs, on the other hand, need to come up with another weapon than Dirk, because as strong as he is he can't play the Superman/rescuer role every night to win the title.

 

[j41181]

I can't help but be awed of WESTSIDE and WHITE LGHTNING's eternal optimism and enthusiasm, and I myself, guilty of pessimism. I will say that I have this tendency to be cautious, due to my strong belief in KARMA.

It was an amazing win for Dallas, but they can do better than this. The team committed a number of TO's which led to several fast break points for the Heat (virtually unstoppable on the break). They did quite a poor job in boxing out, giving up a number of put back slams in the process.

But, if Dallas is able to win on such a rough night, imagine when they're at their best. I expect Games 3, 4, and 5 to be really tight, the Heat will clearly learn something from last night, but so have the Mavs. If the Mavs can cut down their TO's (bad passes), box out, and shoot better... the series is theirs to win.

 

[foobar75]

When you watch the Heat run their half-court offense, it's total garbage. I don't believe they run any sets at all. It's iso after iso, with James and Wade getting the ball and then trying to make something happen. It's just as ugly as Chicago's, except they have 2 main guys instead of one.

Their main strength is their defense, which creates turnovers, which then leads to fast-breaks and they're unstoppable there. They can quickly run you out of the gym. So, if the Mavs can just cut back on the turnovers, rebound and play defense like they did in the last 7 minutes of Game 2, they are a much better team. I also hope Peja and Berea can step it up at home, as role players often do.

The 2-3-2 format makes it really tough for the home team to win all 3. As much as I want the Mavs to pull it off, I predict they'll take 2 out 3, and head back to Miami up 3-2. Hopefully I'm wrong and they do what Detroit did to LA in 2004.

 

[Westside]

j41181, after watching Dallas arrive at the finals I know they can win. But those turnovers have to stop. And Peja and Berera have to step up. Marion and Terry did last night to keep that game within reach.

Unlike some, I know Lebrown is not over hyped, he can play. Wade goes without saying. But if the Mavs decrease the turnovers and certain players step up and their shots start falling in terms of 3s, Dallas winning 3 and the championship is very doable. j41181, like you said its impertative they box out under the glass on offense or defense.

I am sure their head coach will ram this home. Dirk and Marion keeping them alive, a third consistent scorer has to surface.

 

[REDNOSE]

Let me first say that I think the Mavs will win in 6 or 7. I feel that they have under-achieved thus far and their bench will play much better at home. The Heat on the other hand have shot much better than they usually do from the outside and played "over their heads." This trend will not continue and they will resort to bulldozing their way to the rim and cry each time a foul isn't called. Don't get me wrong, I think that Wade is one of the top 5 players in the NBA and he's capable of some amazing games. But I'm not sold on the greatness of LeBron. He gets bailed out too many times by the refs and his shot isn't that good. He relies on fast-break points and free throws to pad his stats. I'm not stupid enough to say that he isn't a very good player or even an All-Star, I just feel that his game doesn't warrant all the hoopla that he receives. Like others said previously, Dallas must limit their silly turnovers and they should be OK. The one wildcard I see that could cause some problems for the Mavs is Bosh. He has played very poorly so far and I believe will has at least one or two good games before the series is over. If not, the Heat are in trouble.

 

[whiteathlete33]

Let me first say that I think the Mavs will win in 6 or 7. I feel that they have under-achieved thus far and their bench will play much better at home. The Heat on the other hand have shot much better than they usually do from the outside and played "over their heads." This trend will not continue and they will resort to bulldozing their way to the rim and cry each time a foul isn't called. Don't get me wrong, I think that Wade is one of the top 5 players in the NBA and he's capable of some amazing games. But I'm not sold on the greatness of LeBron. He gets bailed out too many times by the refs and his shot isn't that good. He relies on fast-break points and free throws to pad his stats. I'm not stupid enough to say that he isn't a very good player or even an All-Star, I just feel that his game doesn't warrant all the hoopla that he receives. Like others said previously, Dallas must limit their silly turnovers and they should be OK. The one wildcard I see that could cause some problems for the Mavs is Bosh. He has played very poorly so far and I believe will has at least one or two good games before the series is over. If not, the Heat are in trouble.

Thing is, the Mavs have only one player whose a legit superstart and that's Dirk Nowitzki. The Heat have James and Wade plus Bosh whose a second tier star. Kidd is way past his prime and I've always said he was over rated anyway. Plus the Heat have Mike Miller who can light it up if necessary. Peja and Terry have been too inconsistent in the playoffs and unless they pick up their game I don't see the Mavs winning.Edited by: whiteathlete33

 

[Deadlift]

I didn't really get the sense that the MSM was "terrified" that Dallas tied the series at 1 game apiece. The PTB didn't want Dallas to get swept, as the series would "lack drama" and their precious ratings period would be only 4 games instead of around 6 (which is where I think the series will end at).

My analysis of this series (before and during) has been absolutely spot-on, but I will watch Game 3 before adding further input. That's just prudent IMO. I do agree with the sentiment, though, that Chris Bosh may not play horribly throughout this whole series. And, another reason why Miami should have won Game 2 is because of Mike Bibby's huge contributions from downtown. Does he have some sparks remaining in this series? Mike Miller, too?

 

[JReb1]

Dirk is clearly the best player in the NBA IMHO. Dirk looks like a

better player than either James or Wade. I don't ever expect Dirk to

ever get the credit he's earned for this though. DWFs would go berserk

for me saying that Dirk is in their negro idols league talent wise, but he's a

better all-around player.

I thought I was the biggest critic of black basketball players.. but you sir have just taken that crown from me! Congrats!!

Thanks... but I wasn't really criticizing black players, I was stating my opinion that Dirk is the best player in the NBA right now. Wade and James are great player too but if Dirk, James and Wade each played on identical teams where they were the only superstars Dirk's team would be the best IMO. Dirk routinely makes shots that James and Wade could only dream about!

 

[white lightning]

I agree with this. Dirk is amazing. He is the best shooting big man in the history of the game. He also can take guys off the dribble and get to the line. Hoping for another big win by Dallas tonight. Dirk needs to have a big game and some of the other players on Dallas. Please step it up.

 

[white lightning]

Well Dallas blew it. Costly turnovers down the stretch sealed their fate. They should have won this game in my opinion. They went away from Dirk two or three times in the last couple of minutes. Why? He was on fire. This was a huge sway of momentum. The series is not over but Dallas will need to win two in a row if they want to have any chance of winning the title. What a huge game for Dirk despite the miss at the end. His 34 points and 11 rebounds were great and he also blocked 3 shots. I hope he doesn't hang his head down. Come on on Tuesday and get the win.

 

[Deadlift]

Dallas got a lot of calls tonight, I mean A LOT, but Miami showed guts. They weren't "scared" to be playing in Dallas.

Where are the "ref conspiracy" posters.. because it sure seemed like the refs were tightening up the game in Dallas' favor! Also, like they wanted the game to be "settled" via last-second shots.... the drama factor.

 

[Westside]

Almost another great comeback win. Dirk is going to need a real second consistent option to win the series. That last bad pass by Dirk is almost forgivable considering the effort he put forth last night.

Boss pretty much earned alot of his pay this season with that winning shot. Wade was like Dirk tonight, Unreal. Panic mode need not set in, but Mavs winning the next game is a no brainer. I hope Tuesday the Mavs tie the series.

 

[Don Wassall]

Let me first say that I think the Mavs will win in 6 or 7. I feel that they have under-achieved thus far and their bench will play much better at home. The Heat on the other hand have shot much better than they usually do from the outside and played "over their heads." This trend will not continue and they will resort to bulldozing their way to the rim and cry each time a foul isn't called. Don't get me wrong, I think that Wade is one of the top 5 players in the NBA and he's capable of some amazing games. But I'm not sold on the greatness of LeBron. He gets bailed out too many times by the refs and his shot isn't that good. He relies on fast-break points and free throws to pad his stats. I'm not stupid enough to say that he isn't a very good player or even an All-Star, I just feel that his game doesn't warrant all the hoopla that he receives. Like others said previously, Dallas must limit their silly turnovers and they should be OK. The one wildcard I see that could cause some problems for the Mavs is Bosh. He has played very poorly so far and I believe will has at least one or two good games before the series is over. If not, the Heat are in trouble.

Thing is, the Mavs have only one player whose a legit superstart and that's Dirk Nowitzki. The Heat have James and Wade plus Bosh whose a second tier star. Kidd is way past his prime and I've always said he was over rated anyway. Plus the Heat have Mike Miller who can light it up if necessary. Peja and Terry have been too inconsistent in the playoffs and unless they pick up their game I don't see the Mavs winning.

That's a good analysis based on what I've seen so far.

I don't much about Berea but he's been horrible offensively in this series. I'd like to see Peja get more opportunities as the Mavs need more threats to help Dirk.

 

[white is right]

Yes if the Mavericks are going to win somebody needs help Dirk out. Terry and the other players are too wildly inconsistent. Tyson Chandler doesn't seem to have any offense beyond the power dunk. Wade was clutch in this game and he didn't flop for calls like in 06'. Also Lebron basically pulled a David Blaine in this game and in game 2 down the stretch. I think if the roles were reversed with Dirk a sweep would be happening.

 

[whiteathlete33]

If Stojakovic was in his prime, the Mavs would have a very good chance. He's nowhere near the shooter he was five years ago. If the Mavs go down three games to one the series is as good as over.

 

[REDNOSE]

Deadlift- Are you referring to the Wade flop vs Kidd, or the phantom kick ball out of bounds by JJ, the bailout foul by the African named guy on Bosh where there are three Dallas defenders ready for the defensive rebound that gives Miami a chance to go ahead at the end. I didn't see A LOT of calls that went against Miami. I think referees in general get A Lot of calls wrong based on emotion and perception. Being at home, Dallas got A Few beneficial calls but nothing even close to the gift wrapped championship in 2006. So far, I think the officials have done a fair job keeping it even and are letting the players determine the outcome. Thus far, Miami has played better overall and are playing their best ball of the year and deserve to be up. Dallas has to have their bench play better and I still believe they have underachieved. JJ has been very disappointing and I believe the reason why Dallas lost last night. He is inexperienced but the clock is ticking for him and his teammates to get it together.

 

[Borussia]

These Miami Heat fans are just an out and out text book example of Caste indoctrinated, de-racinated fans x 100.
Please Dallas, at least makes this series go 7 games.
What is so nauseating is that Miami Heat supporters are fair weather trendoid black worshipers. They now love the team because they have 3 of the top 12 players in the league.
So easy to get behind a winner. The flash and cash is what they admire.

This team in some regards is very fitting for South Florida in general. Btw, when they sucked a few years back, you couldn't give away tickets.
Such loyal 'team' fans we have down here.

It's not even the players I have an issue with now, it's the hero worship and anti-White fandumb that is the problem.
They hated Lebron James when he was with Cleveland. Now, he is king of Mijami.
I was hoping Dallas and Dirk can at least humble these people a bit.

Not that I know that much about basketball, but I think the post game pundits pretty much nailed it: Miami has 3 players to win a game in crunch time and 3 big time go to players. Dallas has 1.
Mike Willbon and Magic Johnson said that Dallas lost game 3 because no one else is helping Dirk out.

I was hoping familiar surroundings would get at least someone hot with some key baskets - Terry, Peja, JJ, anyone???
No one is stepping out and Marion is not a consistent big time performer.

Terry, can you please hit a damn 3 pointer??
JJ needs to stop playing scared and just drive.
Peja, good God dude, please wake up and get in rhythm. The Mavs need someone to please step up.

It's basically Dirk vs the big 3 in my estimation.
Any Dallas assistance is tepid at best.

The 3 pointer at the end of the 2nd half was illegal. But hey, that's the breaks. Basketball always has a few blown calls and yes, I agree with the poster that stated the refs in the 4th Q were clearly throwing Dallas a few bones to keep up the late game drama.

Game 4 win for Dallas or they are just cooked.
Mavs really need to win 2 of 3 in Dallas to realistically have a shot at winning the finals.

Miajami's fast break dunks are just too frequent and too easy...
I don't know if Dallas matches up that well with the Heat here.
If no one is hitting 3 pointers or gets hot, Mavs have sadly no shot.

And it's not Dirk obviously that is the issue. Pundits are right here, there is not enough help.
Everyone else mostly looks scared and Terry is ice cold.
Peja is not even taking shots.

I think these annoying, victim embracing, star loving Heat fans are already starting the parade party plans.
Come on Dallas, Game 4 or bust!!

 

[white is right]

If Stojakovic was in his prime, the Mavs would have a very good chance.  He's nowhere near the shooter he was five years ago.  If the Mavs go down three games to one the series is as good as over.

Yes the Stojakovic of 02' through 04' would have probably tipped this series in Dallas' favor. Lebron pulling a Houdini/ David Copperfield down the stretch gave Dallas a chance to come back in the last two games of the series.

 

[guest301]

I am still wishing that Caron Butler pulls a Willis Reed and plays sometime before this series is over. He is tough, good defender, can create his own shot and outplayed Lebron the two times he was matched up against him in the regular season. Caron is all the help that Dirk would need, Caron is already playing in one on one and two on two drills and right now he is awaiting a doctors clearance.

 

[white lightning]

Good point guest301. I really believe the biggest key is to do two things tonight and the rest of the series. One is to slow down Wade a little. You can't stop him but he gets far too many layups and dunks. Two is to limit the turnovers and sloppy play. I think their shots will start falling soon. Dallas has too many good shooters to keep missing the whole series. The key is to make the most of your possesions and scored points. That along with hard defense will be the key to the win.

I guarantee a victory tonight. You heard it hear first. I am positive that they will win.

 

[TwentyTwo]

I have to agree white lightning...got a good feeling about tonights game as well! They do miss Caron; how would effect their team chemistry??They also missed back-up Haywood in Game 3; Mahimini was the human foul-machine.! Terry needs to step it up...Lebron has shut him down in 4th qtr...and the Heat have neutralized the Mavs bench...tonight is a night they can click on all cylinders like Game 4 vs Lakers...maybe not 20 3 pointers; but how about 12-14??

 

[white lightning]

For those of you who didn't hear, Dirk woke up with a fever of 103 degrees today. He was sick all day and his fever was still 102 degrees at game time. Dirk may be sick but he is playing as hard as he can and his teammates are giving him some support. It's a close game. Let's bring it home Dallas. Time to put the Heat away and let Dirk get some rest. Let's Go Mavs!

 

[Kaptain]

If Stojakovic was in his prime, the Mavs would have a very good chance.  He's nowhere near the shooter he was five years ago.  If the Mavs go down three games to one the series is as good as over.

Yes the Stojakovic of 02' through 04' would have probably tipped this series in Dallas' favor. Lebron pulling a Houdini/ David Copperfield down the stretch gave Dallas a chance to come back in the last two games of the series.

I remember him being a much better defender. He seems to have lost a step.

 

[TwentyTwo]

Dirk dug down deep with a "strong" 4th qtr(10 pts); after hegot off to fast start 3 for 3 at start of game... went ice cold; looked like he felt lousy...What a Warrior!!! He will never use the excuse he was sick...

Dallas Wins 86-83...down by 9...went on a 21-9 run !!

Series TIED 2- 2!!Edited by: TwentyTwo

 

[j41181]

Another tough win for Dallas, and with Dirk having the FLU!!!

That last basket he scored against 3 Heat defenders was scintillating!!!!