Mavericks-Cavaliers Preview

Earl K. Sneed, Mavs.com (10/17/09)

Cleveland Cavaliers (3-2) at Dallas Mavericks (3-1)

Though the two teams play in different conferences, the Dallas Mavericks and Cleveland Cavaliers mirror each other in many ways.

(Photo by Tim Heitman/NBAE via Getty Images)


Both teams are bolstered by Top 10 players in the NBA, with the Mavs’ Dirk Nowitzki and the Cavs’ superstar LeBron James. Each has won a league MVP award. Both teams represent franchises fighting to get over the hump and win an NBA title, after disappointing losses in the Finals in recent years.

As a result, both teams pulled off trades to add former All-Star level players to their core this season, when Dallas brought in Shawn Marion via a four-team trade and Cleveland landed Shaquille O’Neal from Phoenix.

"Every year you're trying to get better," Mavs coach Rick Carlisle said. "I'm not sure there's that much thought about what happened three years ago. Both teams are at a stage where the time to go for it is now."

"Cleveland's a top team. They're a top franchise, so is Dallas. It's an interesting matchup."

The dilemma for Dallas is slowing down James on the perimeter, while also defending O'Neal in the paint. It isn't an easy task by any means, said point guard Jason Kidd.

"LeBron is one of the best, if not the best player in the league. You just have to try to limit his touches," Kidd said.

"Shaq is still a great player," Carlisle said of the aging big man in the paint. "No question. We'll try to play him straight up when we can, but it's very difficult. So, you have to have help ready."

The Mavs and Cavs square off Saturday night at the American Airlines Center, tipping off at 7:30 p.m. CT and airing locally on KTXA 21 and KTXA 21 HD. It is Dallas’ final preseason home game. For ticket information call (214) 747-MAVS.

Dallas has also introduced the “MavsU” program, designed to offer college and university students an opportunity to attend Mavs games at a discounted rate. The Mavericks and Genghis Grill have teamed to offer discounted tickets to students for many upcoming games.

To purchase any MavsU ticket and receive a coupon for a free bowl at Genghis simply call 214-747-MAVS or visit Mavs.com.



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