Tim Hardaway Jr's injury has led to the rise of these two Mavs players
Dallas, TX – When Mavericks shooting guard Tim Hardaway Jr suffered a fracture of the fifth metatarsal on Jan. 25th, fans began to panic a bit. In large part, this was due to rumors of Hardaway Jr being in trade talks, even though his injury has ruined those scenarios. Not only that, he was the […]
Dallas, TX – When Mavericks shooting guard Tim Hardaway Jr suffered a fracture of the fifth metatarsal on Jan. 25th, fans began to panic a bit.
In large part, this was due to rumors of Hardaway Jr being in trade talks, even though his injury has ruined those scenarios.
Not only that, he was the Mavs' 3rd of 4th scoring option that gave high energy on both ends of the court.
Mavericks so far have to use more of their bench and role players to help fill the void during Hardaway Jr's absence.
There are two players in particular who has made the most of their opportunities to give the team a spark.
Let's dive in and discuss those two individuals who look to continue their good play.
Reggie Bullock
Offseason free-agent acquisition, Reggie Bullock, has been on a bit of a hot streak since THJ went down a few weeks ago.
Over his last five games, he has averaged 19.6 PPG, 6.0 rebounds, and shooting 49 percent from field goal range.
Those have been career-high numbers, and he is finally showing the potential Dallas knew he had.
Bullock struggled in the first half of the season, but Jason Kidd has found a recipe that seems to be working.
It is always a great sign when players find their rhythm and confidence shows in their play.
His 48 percent from the arc has helped the Mavericks become a much more dangerous shooting team.
Look for Bullock to continue his hot shooting tonight against a not-so-good Detroit Pistons squad.
Dwight Powell
Dwight Powell, for much of his career, is not your ideal scorer but his hustle and energy are solid.
Since THJ's injury, Powell has averaged 10.5 points and has added more physicality to his well-rounded game.
He may never be a dominant player but he works well with Luka Doncic in screens and pick-and-roll situations.
Those opportunities create more points at the rim and allow Doncic to dish the ball out on the perimeter.
Powell gives the team efficient scoring while he continues to play to his strengths.
Bottom Line
Kidd has brought out the best development in players such as Bullock and Powell, which has paid dividends.
It is still undetermined what Kidd will do once THJ is eligible to return, but for right now, Bullock and Powell have made strides.
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