Irving and Flagg looked ready; Dallas’ defense did not

What changed

Dallas finally used something close to a regular rotation Friday. Atlanta still made the Mavericks look a step behind. The Hawks won 135-111, took control with a 34-20 second quarter and sent Dallas into the regular season with a 1-3 preseason record.

The encouraging part was exactly where Dallas needs it most. Cooper Flagg finished with 26 points, 12 rebounds and four assists, while Kyrie Irving scored 18 with five assists and made five of seven threes. Together they gave the offense a center of gravity even while Atlanta tried to deny clean catches.

The problems around them were harder to ignore. Atlanta made 21 threes, attempted 45 free throws and won the total rebound count 69-52 when team rebounds are included. Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 25 and Jalen Johnson added 20 points and 14 rebounds. Dallas moved the ball well enough to record 30 assists on 40 baskets, but it could not consistently guard the ball or finish defensive possessions.

Dusty May's postgame priorities were direct: rebound better, reduce turnovers and find pressure releases so Irving and Flagg do not have to fight through every possession alone. Those are no longer abstract preseason questions. Houston gets the first real chance to test them Wednesday.