Dallas, We Have a Problem!

In 7th grade, I took a typing class (I know, that really dates me!) for an elective. As part of our typing final exam, we had to type the following phrase:

Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their country.

As a sports fan, and more specifically, as a Dallas Mavericks fan, this phrase has crept into my mind this morning. Except, I would change the phrase to read:

Now is the time for Dirk Nowitzki to come to the aid of his team!

What in the name of Dick Motta and Uwe Blab is going on here! The Mavericks entered the playoffs winning 9 in a row and 13 out of their last 14. This team had a new attitude, a new focus, a new direction and a new coach. They emphasized defense and ball movement. This is the year that the Mavericks were supposed to make a serious run at the western conference title. This is the year the Mavericks proved their critics wrong. This is the year.......they get swept by the Rockets!?!? In the first round!?!?

There are (hopefully!) 5 more games left in this series. It's not time to hit the panic button yet. We can still pull this out. In my opinion, here's what's gone wrong and here's what needs to happen for the Mav's to win the series:

What's Gone Wrong:

-- Avery Johnson looks like a rookie coach in the playoffs. He is being out-coached by Jeff Van Gundy.

-- The Mav's look very hesitant. Probably because of their coach.

-- Michael Findley is old.

-- Dirk Nowitzki is not involved.

What Needs to Happen:

-- Avery, get advise from Nellie. He's been there...a lot. He's watched your two games against the Rockets and I am sure he can give you a pointer or two. Don't let your pride get in the way. I think Avery can and will be a great coach. However, the playoffs are completely different than the regular season.

-- Open up the offense. I know Avery Johnson's preaching defense, but this team thrives when it put points on the board. Run, run, run!!! Make the Rockets play their game, not the other way around.

-- Sit Michael Findley's old rear end on the bench. Play Marquis Daniels. Daniels athleticism can provide mismatches for the Mav's. I like Michael Findley but he's had it.

-- Do whatever it takes to get Dirk more involved. Dirk stands around and does not get into the flow of the game when he doesn't touch the ball. He is your best player. When he plays with energy, the Mav's play with energy. When Dirk's on, the Mav's are on.

It's not too late. The Mav's play well on the road. Maybe that's what they need to get things turned around.

Now is the time for Dirk Nowitzki to come to the aid of his team!