Luka Doncic believes he has identified the key to making Quentin Grimes even more unstoppable for the Dallas Mavericks.
The Mavericks secured one of their most thrilling victories of the season on Sunday night, defeating the Golden State Warriors 143-133 in Klay Thompson’s second return to the Bay Area. Dallas put on an offensive clinic, shooting an incredible 59.8 percent from the field and 51.2 percent from beyond the arc.
This victory was among the Mavericks’ most complete performances of the season. The trio of Kyrie Irving, Luka Doncic, and Thompson combined for 95 points on an impressive 62.2 percent shooting. Doncic delivered a standout performance, scoring a season-high 45 points and notching his 80th career triple-double. Thompson, meanwhile, enjoyed his best game since joining Dallas.
While Doncic’s MVP-caliber form and Thompson’s offensive involvement were notable highlights, another key takeaway was the performance of the Mavericks’ bench. Although the bench’s stats weren’t overwhelming, their contributions on both ends were crucial, particularly as Golden State shot well throughout the game.
Quentin Grimes emerged as the most impactful bench player for Dallas. Building off his strong showing against Golden State during the NBA Cup a month ago, Grimes scored 14 points on 4-of-8 shooting from three. His performance underscored his growing role on the team.
Doncic: Grimes needs more catch-and-shoot opportunities
Grimes has now scored in double figures in nine of the Mavericks’ last 14 games, establishing himself as both a reliable 3-point shooter and a solid defender. Speaking after the game, Doncic shared his thoughts on how the Mavericks can maximize Grimes’ impact.
“He was big time today,” Doncic said during the post-game press conference. “He’s one of the best catch-and-shoot (players) in this league, so just gotta use him like that more.”
Doncic’s suggestion has merit. In 24 games this season, Grimes has attempted five or more 3-pointers in only six contests. Despite this, he’s shooting an impressive 41.6 percent from deep, showing his potential as a highly efficient shooter. While Grimes has excelled as a screener, cutter, and playmaker, increasing his catch-and-shoot opportunities could make him even more dangerous offensively.
If the Mavericks focus on creating more 3-point looks for Grimes, he could establish himself as one of the league’s premier sixth men, particularly as Dallas’ most reliable catch-and-shoot option after Thompson.
Grimes’ versatility and consistent performances over the past month have been a revelation for the Mavericks. Head coach Jason Kidd has called on Grimes to step up on both ends of the floor, and the guard has delivered. It now seems logical for Kidd to reward Grimes with additional playing time and incorporate more actions designed to get him open looks from
three-point range.
