Lately, the rebounding has been there. In six games before Thursday, the Mavericks had outrebounded three of their opponents and had been edged by no more than three rebounds in the other three games.

And Tuesday, the Mavericks edged the Lakers, 56-45. That marked a season high in rebounds, and it came against the fourth-best rebounding team in the league.

Of course, against San Antonio on Thursday, the Mavericks were outrebounded, 51-40, counting for a small step backward.

Still, the Mavericks have improved from 21st out of 29 teams at the beginning of the season to 16th. They are eighth in the NBA in defensive rebounding.

Mavericks coach Don Nelson can offer a small explanation.

"If you're looking for a reason, it's probably Greg Buckner," Nelson said. "He's one of our best rebounders, and he certainly is a difference."