Jason Terry’s Fourth-Quarter Magic Keys Mavericks Over Blazers

The Dallas Mavericks survived another night without Dirk Nowitzki, edging the Portland Trail Blazers 84-81. Jason Terry, who may be some sort of supernatural being, scored 12 points in the fourth quarter, with seven of those coming during the game-winning 12-4 run Dallas invoked with four minutes to go in the game.

The Mavericks had been down five at that point; Terry simply took over Dallas' dilapidated offense and the impressive Mavs' defense cinched all the way up. In the run, Terry had those seven points on a three and two mid-range jumpers. But he also assisted the Mavericks' two other scores: a lay-up by Tyson Chandler and a key three by DeShawn Stevenson inside a minute to go. On the other end, Portland had trouble getting LaMarcus Aldridge, the game's high scorer with 28 points, a shot late.

How keyed in was Terry? J.E.T. was so focused on the game, and setting up a crucial play in the huddle that he didn't notice Rodrigue Beaubois' face a few feet to his right.

Wesley Matthews has shot 6-23 in the Blazers' last two games, reminding you that no, he is not Brandon Roy. Marcus Camby had 20 rebounds for the 41st time in his illustrious career.

Blazersedge is concerned about Portland's strategy of relying on three-pointers given that the Blazers have trouble hitting threes. Mavs Moneyball focuses on how critical Dallas' defense will be going forward without small forward Caron Butler.