By Tim MacMahon

DALLAS — Mark Cuban wasn’t sure whether Corey Brewer could contribute this season when the Mavs signed the swingman to a three-year deal in late February.

However, after watching Brewer fly all over the floor in the Mavs’ last five games, Cuban has no doubt that the guy can play a significant role in this series.

“He impacts games in a lot of different ways,” Cuban said. “I hope he gets the chance to do that here.”

Coach Rick Carlisle, as usual, has been vague when asked about Brewer’s role. But he made it clear that Brewer will get some opportunties against the Blazers’ big guards.

“I won’t hesitate to put him in based on the last five or six games,” Carlisle said.

Brewer, who spent most of the couple of months either inactive or at the end of the bench, proved down the stretch that he’s can be a high-energy help to the Mavs. He also showed an improved offensive game, scoring in the double figures in three of the last five games.

“Corey gives us amazing energy,” Cuban said. “His plus-minus is through the roof. I can’t say enough good things about him, and his shot is getting better by the minute.

“You love when guys make you look smart.”

If the owner is talking that way, the smart money is on Brewer getting extended minutes this series.

Courtesy of: ESPN Dallas/Fort Worth