Dallas is 2-4 after losing to the Utah Jazz 113-104 on Sunday. Here are thoughts on the game and the season thus far.



Dallas correctly reworked its offense over this summer. Let’s not act like the team’s doing anything radically different, but there’s been a clear emphasis on passing, cutting, dribble hand-offs, and high post facilitating from the team’s big men. The coaches are actively discouraging shots in the mid-range, and the team has largely replaced them with even more 3-pointers (Dallas has finished near the top of the league for several seasons) and shots at the rim. The team has also preached tempo.



System means nothing without personnel. Luka Doncic – a 6’8 wunderkind who can guard power forwards while playing point guard – helps Rick Carlisle implement this style. Whenever he’s on the court, Dallas can play two true points without sacrificing size. He makes polished, veteran plays that 19-year-olds...