Jonas Valanciunas was a monster Wednesday night against the Philadelphia 76ers, just as I predicted. He is still a kid and no doubt totally embarrassed by the incident on Monday, which involved him getting arrested for drunk driving. He’s 21-years-old, new to Canada and new to the NBA. For all we know he played so well because he thought the Raptors would cut him over this incident.
Yesterday I also added Trevor Ariza form the Wizards to my DraftStreet fantasy team. That was a mistake. I paid big bucks for him and he didn’t even score a point. Also in the game the Charlotte Bobcats defeated Washington and moved to sixth place in the East. For some reason this Wiz team doesn’t look right, they have the talent but blow a lot of winnable games. I think it comes down the PF position where the best player is Trevor Booker until Nene is fully healthy again.
Now, my team tonight.
Dirk Nowitzki: He just became the 10th best scorer in NBA history and has been playing his best ball since the Mavs won the title three years ago.
Vince Carter: For his 15th NBA season he’s doing pretty well. Averaging 12 points in a bench role makes him similar to the role Jason Terry had years ago in Dallas.
Shawn Marion: Consistently consistent is Shawn Marion. He controls himself so well on the court and because of that he doen’t get rattled by a big game.
Klay Thompson: I keep getting lucky with him. There’s no science behind this pick, if he’s hot it will pay off.
Patty Mills: Tony Parker is out for the Spurs so this is a natural fit. Mills will get starters minuets again tonight.
Jose Calderon: I know, another Mavs player. But I like this team a lot and Jose Calderon is a big reason why. Dallas plays San Antonio and you can bet Calderon will want to outwork the much younger Mills.
Samuel Dalembert: Yes, another Maverick. He’s 32 now but playing more like he’s 25. In his last 10 games he’s been averaging near a double-double.
Stephen Curry: Even though his team is a mess right now, Curry is not. Golden State has to win to clinch a playoff berth and Curry should want this more than anyone.
NBA Games tonight
San Antonio Spurs at Dallas Mavs
The Spurs have won eight straight over Dallas but I think that changes tonight. The Mavs are rolling and it’s quite possible SA plays without two of its big three.
Denver Nuggets at Golden State Warriors
The Nuggets have nothing to play for but that’s not Golden State’s case. This win, and every other win this season is very important in order to hold on to the sixth seed.
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Brett Poirier is a contributor to Sheridan Hoops. Follow @BrettNBA