DALLAS — It was about a month ago when the Dallas Mavericks and Phoenix Suns last faced off against each other, with the Suns achieving the 132-109 victory without Kyrie Irving in the lineup. The game featured the Mavs being blown out despite holding a 16-point lead.
Both teams have different players in the mix, with the Mavs being active before the NBA trade deadline by adding P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford, while the Suns recently signed Thaddeus Young.
The Mavs have received a strong impact from Washington and Gafford since their debuts. Suns superstar Kevin Durant highlighted the value Dallas has gained through their versatility and athleticism. Playing alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, Durant described both new additions' jobs as "way easier."
"A lot of versatility and a lot of athleticism," Durant said of Gafford and Washington. "When you're playing off of Kyrie and Luka, that just makes your job way easier, so they don't have to do too much but be athletic and knock down shots. It'll be a tough task, and we're looking forward to it."
During his media availability at NBA All-Star Weekend, Durant described the Suns' upcoming matchup against the Suns as a "good test" as Phoenix seeks to gauge where they are as a group. Both teams have played well, particularly defensively, lately, with superstar talents to set the tone offensively.
"Good test for us. They've been playing well lately," Durant said. "They got some new additions to their team that'll challenge us. It's a great game to start the second half of the season with."
The Suns went through their first practice with Young in the fold. Durant praised the versatility and basketball IQ that the 16-year pro will provide Phoenix as someone who has competed alongside him for many years across different teams.
"His versatility is somebody that can play in many positions, this player that has a high IQ for the game," Durant said of Young. "So, you know, Thad's one of those. I think the league is trending towards positionless players. Guys should plug in in any different spot, and they'll be effective. He's been one of those guys for a while."
It remains to be seen if Young will make his Suns debut against the Mavs since Phoenix coach Frank Vogel said, "We'll see" when discussing the possibility. The Suns could be without Bradley Beal, too, as he is listed as questionable due to left hamstring tightness. Meanwhile, Dallas ruled out Dante Exum (right knee bursitis).
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