Spurs Analysis: Player Grades Following Mavericks' Victory

Spurs Performances Under the Spotlight

After an off season in which the Mavericks bolstered their roster with an eye on making another deep run, it was finally time to witness the regular season debuts of new players and familiar faces. Klay Thompson, Quentin Grimes, Spencer Dinwiddie and Naji Marshall joined the usual suspects in their season and home opener against the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night, which Dallas won 120-109.

Almost a year ago to the day, the Mavericks spoiled Victor Wembanyama’s NBA debut and ultimately swept the season series against their division rival. The Spurs added veteran leadership in the off season with newcomers Chris Paul and former Mav Harrison Barnes, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Mavericks in this one. It’s time to recap and grade each player’s performance.

Luka Doncic

Luka did not play in the Preseason and it clearly showed. His legs were not under him, his rhythm has yet to be established and his shooting suffered. Going 9 for 25 overall from the field and 4 for 11 on threes wasn’t pretty, yet he was still only two assists shy of a triple-double. His stats underscore the idea that the best Luka is yet to come.

Kyrie Irving

Irving displayed shooting struggles akin to Luka, shooting a worse percentage overall, but excelled from three-point range. He contributed defensively with 2 steals.

Klay Thompson

Thompson was the second leading scorer with 22. He demonstrated his offensive calm and defensive commitment, breaking the Mavericks record for made threes in a debut.

Grant Washington

Washington had a quietly solid night with decent stats and contributed positively to the game.

Derrick Lively

Lively impressed off the bench, showing efficiency in his minutes and outplaying expectations against Wembanyama.

Naji Marshall

Marshall struggled, marking a challenging debut but showcased potential as a ball distributor.

Quentin Grimes

Grimes had a solid debut although his contributions went largely unnoticed.

Daniel Gafford

Operating as expected, Gafford brought energy and intensity with solid stats in a limited role.

Maxi Kleber

Kleber's efficiency shone through in limited minutes, posted positive stats leading to a strong plus-minus rating.

Jaden Hardy

Hardy showcased his scoring ability, marking a promising contribution off the bench.