Mavs Spurs Game 6 Picks

San Antonio Spurs vs. Dallas Mavericks

Game 6

Friday 8:05 pm EST

May 2, 2014

Line: San Antonio Spurs -3

Let’s be real. The Dallas Mavericks never had a chance to win Game 5.

Coming oh so close in the second half, climbing within four points (98-94) after a Vince Carter 3-pointer with three minutes left, the Mavericks had an opportunity to inch even closer, and possibly seize control of this game, and maybe even take control of the series. But after Dirk Nowitzki, who was having his best game of the series, missed a wide-open jumpshot from the left baseline, Tony Parker’s 3-pointer on the ensuing possession put an end to that.

The Spurs lead 101-94. The Mavericks threat was over.

Now heading home to American Airlines Center for a must-win, the Mavericks face a tall order if they want to advance into the Western Conference quarterfinals. Having accomplished this feat already once this series, the Maverick must win the next two games, otherwise, they can say farewell to the 2014 playoffs.

Throughout Game 5, San Antonio continuously dominated inside, outscoring the Mavericks 54-28 in the paint. Whether it was DeJuan Blair’s absence due to a one-game suspension, or the ankle injury to Samuel Dalembert, the Spurs were in control for the entire 48 minutes.

Although Nowitzki, who went 7-for-9 in the fourth quarter, and Vince Carter, starred in the second half, their lack of defense was the difference. Unable to defend against Tiago Splitter and the pick and roll, Tony Parker’s ability to get to the hoop, or Manu Ginobili’s touch from long-range, the Mavericks certainly have the offensive power to defeat the Spurs. But if their lack of defense and hustle on the defensive boards remains an issue, the Spurs will be heading back to San Antonio preparing for the next round instead of a Game 7. But perhaps a spark to Dallas’ defense will be the return of Blair, who has been a force in the paint all series long.

The Spurs aren’t going beat themselves — not with Parker, Ginobili, and Tim Duncan on their roster. And if you add the play of Tiago Splitter, who had 17 points, 12 rebounds and five assists, the Mavericks were simply outplayed and outwitted in Game 5.

Trying to stave off elimination, the Mavericks clearly have no match for Parker, no answer for Ginobili, and no one to defend Duncan. If a Game 7 is on the horizon, the Mavericks are going to need another throwback performance from Carter, and are going to need Nowitzki and Ellis…well, to just be themselves.

Sounds simple, right?

If this game were to be played in San Antonio, my money would be on the Spurs to close out this series, but it’s not. Therefore, a Game 7 will be played. And while the Spurs may very well win that one, they certainly aren’t winning this one.

My Pick: Mavericks + 3

            AND

Mavericks Moneyline (+140)