Heading into Game 4 of their second-round matchup, the Dallas Mavericks were riding high against the Oklahoma City Thunder, thanks in large part to their physical play and accuracy from the field in the opening quarter, establishing an early lead they managed to maintain until the final quarter.
Despite their initial momentum, the Mavericks found themselves faltering late in the game, struggling with free throws and failing to convert crucial shots as stars Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic couldn’t capitalize on key opportunities as the game wound down.
The Mavericks’ offensive strategy seemed to hit a wall, especially during the latter half, partly due to the Thunder’s strategic defensive traps and hedges disrupting Dallas’ pick-and-roll setups.
P.J. Washington emerged as a notable contributor for Dallas, scoring 20 points for the third consecutive playoff game. Despite his impactful performance, including sinking five 3-pointers from catch-and-shoot opportunities, Washington’s effectiveness inside the paint and driving to the basket was significantly hindered by the defensive presence of Thunder’s Chet Holmgren.
Amidst the Mavericks’ struggle to generate offense, particularly with Irving and Doncic having an off night, the argument for increasing Dante Exum’s presence on the court becomes stronger. Despite Exum’s limited playing time totaling only five minutes and scoring five points on 2-4 shooting, his limited role throughout these playoffs following his performance against the LA Clippers in the first round, his impact when on the floor was palpable.
Exum, the player Mavericks fans have come to recognize, brought much-needed energy and pace in his brief time on the court, contributing a 3-pointer on a fast break and scoring in a one-on-one situation. His defensive efforts also stood out, especially in matchups against Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Despite a less-than-ideal playoff performance, possibly due to Exum’s adjustment to the heightened intensity of playoff basketball after a few seasons away, his prowess during the regular season shouldn’t be overlooked. Coach Jason Kidd might be hesitant to increase Exum’s role given his shooting struggles, yet Exum’s quick decision-making and offensive aggression could be the spark Dallas needs in moments when their offense stagnates.
With the series now tied 2-2, it’s uncertain whether the combined efforts of Washington, Irving, and Doncic will be sufficient for the Mavericks to overcome the Thunder. However, integrating Exum more significantly into the game plan could provide Dallas with an additional offensive avenue to explore.
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