Mavericks' Dirk Nowitzki: Double-doubles in loss Wednesday

Nowitzki recorded 13 points (3-17 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 6-6 FT), 12 rebounds and one assist over 30 minutes in Friday's 99-90 loss to the Grizzlies.

Analysis:

Nowitzki's eighth double-double of the season was overshadowed by his abysmal shooting, going a paltry 17.6 percent from the floor. Though his resurgence has been impressive, he's currently posting a field-goal percentage of 43.4 this season, which is his second-worst showing in his 19-year career (only his rookie year was worse at 40.6 percent). He certainly seems slow to relinquish his starting role, but that's mostly due to a lack of competition. The Mavs are overloaded with potential in their backcourt, but besides Nowitzki, only Dwight Powell and Nerlens Noel are seeing significant minutes up front. After their four-game skid the Mavs are most likely done for the year, and it looks like there's plenty of room for Nowitzki if he chooses to go for his 20th year in Dallas.