With the Mavericks once again eliminated from the Playoffs after having high hopes of a playoff run the attacks about the team's (lack of) defense are again bubbling to the surface.

More intriguing, however, are the attacks which are coming about the team's offense.  The big O' was always the strength of this Dallas team we've been told, especially after the high scorers added more scoring in the form of Antoine Walker and Antawn Jamieson via trades in the offseason.

The results though, according to David Moore of the Dallas Morning Journal, were too many predictable plays in key games and not enough creativity.  

While being forced to live through the next six months reading article after article about ways these Mavericks can improve their defense, the team must also survive knowing that the Kings were able to shut down their favored pick and roll game and in doing so shut down the Mavericks high powered offense.  Both went hand in hand.

The team could not protect a lead, and it does not have a 'go to' play it can rely on when it needs a basket.  Lack of execution in the halfcourt hurt the