If you told Dallas Mavericks fans they'd be up 2-1 against the Utah Jazz through three games before the series started, all without Luka Doncic, you'd be hard-pressed to find one who'd believe you.
After Luka Doncic suffered a calf strain in the final game of the regular season, the Dallas Mavericks were supposed to roll over. But instead, they've rallied without their centerpiece thanks in large part to Jalen Brunson and Spencer Dinwiddie.
Their play, particularly of Brunson, has caught the attention of peers around the NBA — including one LeBron James.
“Spencer and Jalen dominated that game from the jump to the end. Big time Dub!!” said the Lakers star on Twitter.
Spencer and Jalen dominated that game from the jump to the end. Big time Dub!!
— LeBron James (@KingJames) April 22, 2022
A few others had to give props to Mavs guard Jalen Brunson, including Josh Hart and NBA journeyman Deonte Burton.
JB acting different
— Josh Hart (@joshhart) April 22, 2022
It’s nice to see there is still room for stocky pit pull guards in the nba jalen Brunson is nice 🔥🔥
— Deonte Burton (@DeonteBurton) April 22, 2022
Jalen Brunson poured on 31 points to lead the Mavs, which was actually a step down from his 41-point masterpiece in Game 2. Spencer Dinwiddie had 20 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while Maxi Kleber followed up his 25 points in Game 2 with another solid 17-point outing in Game 3.
The inspired play for Dallas without their superstar is probably the best medicine for Luka Doncic. Going up in the series gives him more time to recovery from his injury while taking any pressure off to rush back.
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