Things appear to just be going from bad to worse for the Dallas Mavericks.
One day after losing a seven point fourth quarter lead in sling at home to Milwaukee, the Mavericks went into Memphis and proceeded to blow a 25 point lead, losing 90-84 to the Grizzlies.
Dallas got off to a roaring 38-19 start for the first quarter and led 49-24 with less than 6 1/2 minutes to play. They proceeded to score only 11 points in the next 18 1/2 minutes.
A five point third quarter had the Mavs down 66-60. Memphis led by as many as nine in the fourth.
After two outstanding performances, Dirk Nowitzki struggled again in Memphis, held to only 10 points and 4 rebounds. No one on the Mavs really stood out, however, as Shawn Marion led Dallas with 16.
Both losses came after the Mavericks got what they felt was a slap in the face from a former player.
Derek Fisher, who asked for his release after playing just nine games and citing family issues, turned around and signed with the Oklahoma City team he finished last season with.
NBA.com reported the Mavs' front office as "agitated" on the deal. Jeff Caplan cited Mark Cuban as having tongue in cheek when he said, “Look, I understand, completely. From the time Derek was here to him signing with OKC, his kids are older, so they can deal with things better. So I understand him having more comfort in being away from them."
If nothing else, the Mavs got some positive words from Milwaukee's Brandon Jennings, who Dallas was considering acquiring at the trade deadline.
“Yeah, of course, who wouldn’t want to play in an environment like this every night?," said the potential restricted free agent. “You’ve got an owner [Mark Cuban] who’s so into his team. Every time you see the Mavs, you see him cheering or going crazy. They won a championship. They’re about winning.”
Now the Mavs must get ready for their first game against another player who recently rejected them. Deron Williams and the Brooklyn Nets will host the Mavs Friday night.
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