I'm guessing Rick Carlisle is happier with that first-period effort than he was with the defense against the Kings early on Tuesday. The Mavs force the Celtics into two shot-clock violations within the final minute. Dirk Nowitzki with 12 of the team's 21 first-quarter points. Meanwhile the Mavericks have found the best way to deal with Kevin Garnett: Put him on the bench with two fouls.
-- Tracey Myers
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