The Dallas Mavericks didn't display much championship level defense in the first half of their matchup with the New Jersey Nets and trail 56-45 at halftime. The Nets jumped out to an early 28-23 lead at the end of the first quarter and hit 50 percent of their shots in the first half. Dallas on the other hand was just 16-44 from the field. (36 percent)
Dirk Nowitzki leads the Mavericks with 11 points while Brendan Haywood has nine points and six rebounds. Shawn Marion added seven points and Jason Terry scored five off the bench in the first half.
Brook Lopez was a nightmare for the Mavericks scoring 21 first-half points on 10-15 shooting. Deron Williams has 10 points and eight assists while Kris Humphries and Anthony Morrow finished with eight points each.
For more on this game Mavericks fans should check out Mavs Moneyball and Nets fans should stop by Nets Daily. For more news and analysis from around the NBA head on over to SB Nation's NBA Basketball page.