So much of the postgame discourse following the Mavericks’ 118-108 loss to Houston on Saturday night focused on aspects of the game or players Dallas would have a tough time dealing with going forward. First and foremost was the team’s brutal pick-and-roll defense. Houston repeatedly shined a light on 36-year-old Dirk Nowitzki by sending the man he was guarding to set a screen. Predictably, Houston feasted. Then there was also what Dwight Howard was able to accomplish. Although foul trouble limited Howard’s floor time, he resembled the defensive terror he was season’s ago in blocking five freaking shots in 17 minutes.
Wasted opportunities
