Mavericks on verge of dynasty as future stars shine despite Pistons loss
DALLAS — The Dallas Mavericks were defeated by the Detroit Pistons on Friday, losing 107-89. Dallas played without Luka Doncic, Kyrie Irving, and Dereck Lively II in the game, however. All three players will sit out Sunday’s regular season finale as well. As a result, a number of Mavericks young players are receiving opportunities to make an impact.
Jaden Hardy led the charge on Friday. He scored 25 points and recorded seven rebounds. Olivier Maxence-Prosper also had a strong game, scoring 16 points and adding six rebounds. Prosper also had a jaw-dropping dunk that belongs on a poster.
Many struggling teams feature young and developing players with potential. Sometimes, the better teams in the league don’t have potential future stars on their rosters. However, the Mavericks happen to be a competitive playoff team with young and exciting talent as well.
“It’s very exciting, it’s very promising when you talk about Hardy and O-Max (Prosper),” Jason Kidd said of the Mavs’ future outlook with their combination of stars and talented young players. “Just the development, also just the depth that you can see because those two didn’t get a lot of minutes this season because of our depth. Again, as we move forward… Those two are young guys that can fill spots when others are gone or hurt. Just understanding what those two are doing right now. Being patient, waiting their turn.”
