NBA 2018-19: 3 Talking points from the Dallas Mavericks Vs Philadelphia 76ers match-up

#2 Mavs' bench shines as starters struggled

Dallas Mavericks huddle between the game

After only two of the starters, Doncic (14 points) and Wesley Matthews (18 points), were able to score in double digits while facing a tough 76ers defence, Rick Carlisle took to his bench to handle the business. Their bench scored 51 of the team’s points, grabbed 25 of their 49 rebounds and made 20 of their 38 field goals.

The Mavs bench outscored the starters, 51-49, and also outrebounded them 25-24 that too in approximately 19 fewer minutes than the starters.

Ryan Broekhoff contributed 15 points off the bench, Dwight Powell ended with 13 points and 4 rebounds and Maxi Kleber added 6 points and 7 rebounds. The rookie Jalen Brunson fell 2 assists short of a triple-double and finished with 8 assists, 13 points and 11 rebounds.

This game proved that the Mavs bench is hailed as one of the best in business for a reason. Their key bench players J. J. Barea, Devin Harris and Dirk Nowitzki, all of whom were rested on the second night of a back-to-back, will be well rested and back in action as they head home for only the fourth time since 13 December.