Mavericks 103, Hornets 127. Right now Dallas just doesn’t have an answer for Chris Paul. In Game 1 he started out tentative, and it was obvious that Hornets coach Byron Scott told him to look for his shot more. Since then he’s shown why he’s a serious MVP candidate.

The loss of Sagana Diop in the Kidd trade is really hurting the Mavs now. When Chris Paul drives off a pick, center Eric Dampier just isn’t quick enough to guard him. If he plays back, Paul nails a jumper. If he gets in his face, Paul goes around him. If he gets stuck in the middle, Paul tosses a lob to Tyson Chandler (which has happened on numerous occasions in each game).

Jason Kidd is a good player but the trade hasn’t worked. Dallas is in serious trouble and better win the next two games (both at home) to have any chance in the series.