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The first week of the NBA season powers on when the Brooklyn Nets (0-1, 1-0 ATS) travel to take on the Dallas Mavericks (1-0, 1-0 ATS). Both teams opened the season on Wednesday. Brooklyn lost their home opener in a tight game against Cleveland, losing 114-113, but covered the spread as 2-point dogs. Dallas spoiled Wembanyama's debut, winning in San Antonio 126-119 as 4.5-point favorites. Dallas swept the two-game season series against Brooklyn last season. Tipoff is scheduled for 8:30 EST from American Airlines Center in Dallas.
The Brooklyn Nets and the Cleveland Cavaliers battled to the last second to win the first game of the season. Cam Thomas missed a three in the final seconds, coach Vaughn said the play was drawn up for Mikal Bridges, but Thomas took the shot. It would be hard to blame Thomas for having the confidence to shoot the game winner, he scored 36 points off the bench, setting a league record for the most points off the bench in a season opener. The Nets gave up 27 points a piece to Donovan Mitchell and Max Strus in the one-point loss.
Brooklyn's starting lineup will have to be more productive on the offensive end. Three starters for the Nets scored in the single digits. Ben Simmons made his return to the court, he had ten rebounds and nine assists, but only managed four points. Spencer Dinwiddie only took three shots in 24 minutes and finished with five points, while Nico Claxton missed seven of his ten shot attempts and finished with seven points.
The Brooklyn production came from Cam Thomas, Mikal Bridges and Cameron Johnson. Thomas had the explosive 36 points off the bench, if he continues to score like this he will push for a starting spot. Mikal Bridges is supposed to be the star of this team, and sharpened his teeth with the Team USA this summer. Bridges had 20 points, six rebound and four assists, but may need to do more for Brooklyn to succeed. The same can be said about Cameron Johnson who just signed a huge contract, he will need more than the 12 points he scored in the opener.
Injury Report:
Day-to-Day: Dariq Whitehead (foot), did not play in the opener.
Free Daily NFL Lock Pick, Thursday October 26th: Buffalo vs Tampa Bay 8:15pmET CLICK TO SEE PICK NOW