Dallas vs. San Antonio Game 2 – Tim Duncan said Dirk Nowitzki would cool down and he did as the Spurs used strong performances out of Manu Ginobili, Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Richard Jefferson for a much needed Game 2 victory. It was Tim Duncan who came up clutch down the stretch of the fourth quarter while Richard Jefferson carried the Spurs in the first half with 17 points by halftime.
The victory can be characterized as a strong and convincing victory by the Spurs. The Mavs missed several makeable shots, but on the same token the Spurs defense picked up. On offense, the Spurs were less sloppy and more determined, playing through three strong Maverick runs.
Besides Tim Duncan and Richard Jefferson, Tony Parker and Antonio McDyess were huge in San Antonio’s victory. McDyess slowed down Dirk Nowitzki and his rebounding and hustle provided the Spurs with several extra possessions. Parker tossed in a few huge buckets – slowing the Mavs momentum – and gave the Spurs a stabilizing force. #9 also tossed in a game high (tied) 8 assists.
Manu Ginobili was the glue that was steady throughout the game. He pawed away a few steals and made gigantic, crushing shots that thwarted the Mav’s comebacks time and time again.
Although George Hill didn’t provide too much in the way of numbers
The Mavs will be much tougher next go around with 36.5% shooting from the field unlikely to happen again. However, the Spurs will be in the confines of the ATT Center.
Game 3 is in San Antonio and will most likely determine the winner of the series.
Spurs Grades:
Tim Duncan – A+
Manu Ginobili – A
Antonio McDyess – A-
Richard Jefferson – A-
Tony Parker – B+
George Hill – B-
Dejuan Blair – C
Matt Bonner C-