If Sam Presti had any hesitation about retaining George Hill the play of Theo Maledon as a starter has erased those doubts. He’s played so well (and consistently) that removing him from the starting rotation would be criminal at this point.
Maledon plays with the calm and demeanor of a savvy vet and is always invested in getting his teammates rolling. If anything perhaps he should call his own number more.
Maledon came just short of a double-double with 11 points and nine assists. His hot perimeter shooting continued as he connected on three of his four 3-pointers.
More Maledon, please!
Shai Gilgeous-Alexnder returned from the break looking as strong and efficient as ever. I caught the Mavericks broadcast and they frequently extolled praise on the Canadian calling him the best player on the court. And — he was.
Unlike the last meeting when SGA struggled from the field (5 of 15) he delivered another typical effort with efficient shooting. It was the eighth time this season Shai registered 30 or more points with 32 points on 11 of 22 from the field although his perimeter shot was off (likely a result of the time off). In addition, he added six rebounds, two assists, and a steal.
Many of his plays featured his trademark glide to the basket or a quick change of pace for a pull-up. Although an entire article could be dedicated to highlights of his shots the one in the second half where he managed to score in spite of a hard foul stood out.