Mavericks Secure Road Win as Veteran Guard Shines
The Dallas Mavericks capped off their two-day road trip against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena, coming out with a 129-199 victory, powered by an explosive fourth-quarter surge. Dallas found a way to prevail, showcasing resilience, depth, and the ability of one key veteran to lead the team in the absence of other stars.
Nov 25, 2024; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd talks to referee Sean Wright (4) against the Atlanta Hawks in the first quarter at State Farm Arena.
© Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Klay Thompson (left foot plantar fascia), Quentin Grimes (illness), Luka Doncic (right wrist sprain), and Dante Exum (right wrist surgery) were all ruled out before tip-off, leaving the Mavericks shorthanded. Doncic and Exum did not make the trip, marking the fourth game this season Dallas played without their star guard, during which they hold a 3-1 record. Additionally, Dereck Lively exited early due to illness, forcing the team to adjust its approach in the paint.
After falling behind 21-12 in the opening minutes and trailing 67-64 at halftime, the Mavericks found themselves locked in a back-and-forth battle. The turning point came in the fourth quarter when Kyrie Irving, overcoming an illness, scored 16 of his game-high 32 points. His performance lifted Dallas, marking the first time since January the team had four players score 20 or more points in a single game. Irving added seven rebounds and six assists in his standout effort.
The Mavericks’ starting five—P.J. Washington, Naji Marshall, Dereck Lively II, Jaden Hardy, and Irving—combined for 90 points, 30 rebounds, and 15 assists. Washington’s 11 points and 10 rebounds marked his third consecutive double-double. The bench provided a critical boost with 39 points, 21 rebounds, and 22 points combined from Spencer Dinwiddie and Daniel Gafford.
Now, the Mavericks return home to face the New York Knicks on Nov. 27 at American Airlines Center. With injuries mounting, Dallas will rely on its depth and momentum to stay competitive in the crowded Western Conference race. Winning five of their last six matchup the Mavericks aim to continue their production amidst a dwindling lineup.
