If you're a Mavericks fan and you don't already realize this, you're in denial. This series will be quick. Probably four games. If you get a fifth, consider yourself fortunate. Because this will be ugly.
Game 1 was an absolute beat down. The Mavericks came out of the gates cold, and fell into an early 15-2 hole. They never recovered. Never challenged. Never really competed. It was the kind of performance that would have Rick Carlisle ripping his hair out. If only.
And if you think there is any reason for hope, you're kidding yourself.
Dirk Nowitzki is a treasure. There's no two ways about it. He's one of the all-time icons of sport in this part of the country. But even he can't stop this train. The Thunder are just too good, and have too many weapons, for Dirk or anyone else in a Mavericks uniform to stop what will be a very brief annihilation.
When Kevin Durant left the game for good in the middle of the third quarter, the Mavs trailed 77-42. Durant and Russell Westbrook had combined to outscore the Mavs 43-42 up to that point. Two men, outscoring an entire team.
Sorry guys, but it was brutal. And it's not getting better.
Rick Carlisle said after the game that it's just one game. That the Mavs are only down 1-0. Sure, that's factual. And it's a logical way for Dallas to look at this situation, in their effort to make a series out of this.
Carlisle is brilliant, and truly one of the absolute best coaches in the NBA. But I can't fathom a way in which he can rectify this situation. If he finds a way to steal a pair of games and extend this series to six, I'll genuinely ponder the chances he has divine powers.
But Mavs fans, rejoice. The series isn't over yet.
There's still three more drubbings to enjoy.
