Mavs vs Blazers Preview: Rebuilding Dallas Faces Rising Portland

Friday night, the Dallas Mavericks roll into Portland to face a Trail Blazers team that has completely changed its identity. Dallas sits at 23-50, deep in rebuild mode, while Portland is 37-37 and fighting for a play-in spot. Although these teams are heading in different directions, each has something important to prove when the ball tips off.

Cooper Flagg has quickly become the face of the Mavericks' future. The rookie averages about 19 points, nearly seven rebounds, and four assists per game while guarding multiple positions. His two-way dominance gives Dallas genuine optimism, because finding a player with his athleticism and competitive drive is rare. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis remain out, leaving Flagg to carry the load.

Portland's biggest weapon is Deni Avdija, who averages about 25 points, seven rebounds, and nearly seven assists per game. Although he has been inconsistent at times, his ability to create offense and facilitate for teammates transforms Portland's attack. Shaedon Sharpe, who averages about 22 points, is also out Friday due to a stress reaction in his fibula, which significantly hurts Portland's scoring depth.

Jrue Holiday anchors Portland defensively, averaging about 17 points and eight assists while providing steady veteran leadership. Donovan Clingan, Portland's 7-foot-2 center, has become a defensive cornerstone, protecting the rim and anchoring the paint. Dallas arrives undermanned but dangerous because Flagg refuses to back down. If Portland's defense stays focused, the Blazers have enough firepower at home to control this matchup comfortably.