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Tag: Mavericks
Mavericks vs Pelicans Prediction, Picks & Odds for Tonight’s NBA Game
Our NBA picks expect a road win for the Mavericks and a big game from Kyrie Irving.
Photo By – Imagn Images.
The New Orleans Pelicans will hope that a return home will be enough to snap a three-game losing streak as they host the Dallas Mavericks at the Smoothie King Center on Wednesday night.
Dallas has proven it can beat even some of the league’s top teams despite losing superstar Luca Doncic, and I’m predicting another win for it in my Mavericks vs. Pelicans predictions.
Learn why I like the Mavs tonight and see my full analysis in my free NBA picks for Wednesday, January 29 below.
Mavericks vs Pelicans prediction
My best bet
Mavericks moneyline (-110 at bet365)My analysis
The Dallas Mavericks haven’t lived up to their expectations this season, and that includes the recent run in which they’ve lost six of their last nine games. Obviously, much of the decline in Dallas’ fortunes has been tied to the loss of Luka Doncic (28.1 ppg), who strained his left calf on Christmas and hasn’t played since.The Mavericks are just 6-11 in their 17 games since that injury, but there have been signs that this team can compete at a high level even without Doncic. In the past two weeks, Dallas beat the Thunder twice, dealing a stunning blow to the team with the best record in the NBA.
Kyrie Irving (24.1 ppg) is now the focal point of the offense, but Dallas has a total of seven players who are scoring in double figures, and players like Daniel Gafford (12.4 ppg) and Spencer Dinwiddie (10.3 ppg) have been among those to step up when needed to score points.
The New Orleans Pelicans briefly looked like they were turning their season around when they won five of six games between Jan. 10 and Jan. 20. Since then, however, the Pelicans have lost three games, failing to cover in any of those contests.
The Pelicans have benefitted from having a healthy Zion Williamson in the lineup for the last two games, an increasingly rare situation for New Orleans, but even as Williamson scored 28 and 31 points on Saturday and Monday, respectively, it didn’t spark a turnaround for the Pelicans offense, which averaged only 98 points in those two games.
Meanwhile, New Orleans continues to struggle on defense, which has been a problem for the team all season long. The Pelicans rank 28th in defensive rating (117.5) and are dead last in defensive rebounding percentage. New Orleans is allowing opponents to score 117.7 ppg on the year and has allowed 10 straight opponents to score 110+ points.
With Doncic pacing the Dallas offense, that’s a total the Mavericks should easily surpass against a hapless Pelicans defense. I can’t see New Orleans keeping up with the Mavs in a shootout, so I’m taking Dallas to win outright on the road.
Mavericks vs Pelicans same-game parlay
Even with Doncic out of the lineup tonight, both teams have plenty of scoring potential in this matchup. Dallas has hit the Over in four straight games, while New Orleans has gone Over the total in six of its last nine games overall. With both teams having been playing to totals of 135+ in many of their recent games, I like the Over here.
Taking a scorer here makes sense, as it correlates well with our expectations for a high-scoring game. I’m going with Kyrie Irving, who’s taken on an even bigger role in the Dallas offense with Doncic’s injury. Irving is scoring 24.1 ppg on the year, and we can expect him to outpace that total against a poor New Orleans defense. I think the safest play is on Irving to score 25+ points tonight.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
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Mavericks vs Pelicans odds
Mavericks vs Pelicans live odds
Mavericks vs Pelicans opening odds
- Spread: Dallas -3 | New Orleans +3
- Moneyline: Dallas -150 | New Orleans +125
- Over/Under: Over 232.5 | Under 232.5
Odds courtesy of bet365.
Mavericks vs Pelicans spread and Over/Under analysis
- The Mavericks are an even 23-23-1 against the spread this season, with the Pelicans entering tonight’s game sporting a 19-28 ATS mark.
- These teams have split their first two meetings both against the spread and straight up, with each winning and covering at home.
- The Over has a 25-21-1 edge in New Orleans’ games this year, while Dallas has played to an even 23-23-1 record against the total.
- The Pelicans are playing to an average total of 226.8 ppg, with the Mavericks averaging a total of 227.5 ppg.
Mavericks vs Pelicans trend
The Pelicans have lost three straight games and are 0-4 ATS in their last four. Find more NBA betting trends for Mavericks vs. Pelicans.
How to watch Mavericks vs Pelicans
Location Smoothie King Center, New Orleans, Louisiana Date Wednesday, 1-29-2025 Tip-off 8:00 p.m. ET TV KFAA, WFAA, GCSEN Mavericks vs Pelicans latest injuries
Not intended for use in MA.
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In tonight’s NBA matchup, the Dallas Mavericks will face off against the New Orleans Pelicans. Both teams are coming off of strong performances in their last games, with the Mavericks defeating the Thunder and the Pelicans taking down the Kings.The Mavericks are currently sitting in the 7th spot in the Western Conference, while the Pelicans are in the 11th spot. Both teams will be looking to secure a win tonight to improve their playoff positioning.
In terms of predictions, the Mavericks are favored to win this game with odds of -150. The Pelicans, on the other hand, have odds of +130. This game is expected to be a close one, with both teams having talented rosters and strong offensive capabilities.
As for picks, I believe the Mavericks will come out on top in this matchup. They have been playing well as of late and have a solid team led by Luka Doncic. The Pelicans have been inconsistent this season and may struggle to keep up with the Mavericks’ scoring.
Overall, I predict the Mavericks will win this game by a narrow margin. It should be an exciting matchup between two talented teams vying for a crucial win in the playoff race.
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New Orleans Pelicans vs. Dallas Mavericks: How to watch NBA online, TV channel, live stream info, start time
3rd Quarter Report
Down six at the end of the second quarter, the Mavericks now have the lead. They have jumped out to a 122-117 lead against the Pelicans.
The Mavericks came into the matchup with some extra motivation after the defeat they were dealt the last time these two teams faced off. We’ll see if they’re able to flip the script or if it’ll just be more of the same.
Who’s Playing
Dallas Mavericks @ New Orleans Pelicans
Current Records: Dallas 25-22, New Orleans 12-35
How To Watch
- When: Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 8 p.m. ET
- Where: Smoothie King Center — New Orleans, Louisiana
- TV: Gulf Coast Sports
- Follow: CBS Sports App
- Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
- Ticket Cost: $1.06
What to Know
The Pelicans will be in front of their home fans on Wednesday, but a look at the spread shows they might need that home-court advantage. They will challenge the Dallas Mavericks at 8:00 p.m. ET at Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans are limping into the contest on a three-game losing streak.
The experts predicted the Pelicans would be headed in after a victory, but the Raptors made sure that didn’t happen. The Pelicans fell 113-104 to the Raptors on Monday.
Even though the team lost, they still had their share of impressive performances. One of the best came from Zion Williamson, who went 13 for 18 en route to 31 points plus seven rebounds and three blocks. He is trending in the right direction considering he’s improved his point production for four straight games.
The Pelicans struggled to get the ball back on offense and finished the game with only six offensive rebounds. They are 1-5 when they can’t control their own glass like that.
Meanwhile, the Mavericks posted their biggest win since December 23, 2024 on Monday. Everything went their way against the Wizards as the Mavericks made off with a 130-108 victory. The match was pretty much decided by the half, when the score had already reached 73-43.
The Mavericks got their win on the backs of several key players, but it was Daniel Gafford out in front who went 8 for 13 en route to 18 points plus eight rebounds and five blocks.
New Orleans’ defeat dropped their record down to 12-35. As for Dallas, their victory bumped their record up to 25-22.
While only the Pelicans took care of their fans the last time they played, neither team managed to cover. Looking ahead, the Mavericks are the favorite in this one, as the experts expect to see them win by 1.5 points. This contest might not be the best time to bet New Orleans against the spread since they’ve let bettors down the last four times they’ve played.
The Pelicans came out on top in a nail-biter against the Mavericks when the teams last played two weeks ago, sneaking past 119-116. Will the Pelicans repeat their success, or do the Mavericks have a better game plan this time around? We’ll find out soon enough.
Odds
Dallas is a slight 1.5-point favorite against New Orleans, according to the latest NBA odds.
The oddsmakers had a good feel for the line for this one, as the game opened with the Mavericks as a 2.5-point favorite.
The over/under is 232.5 points.
See NBA picks for every single game, including this one, from SportsLine’s advanced computer model. Get picks now.
Series History
New Orleans and Dallas both have 5 wins in their last 10 games.
- Jan 15, 2025 – New Orleans 119 vs. Dallas 116
- Nov 19, 2024 – Dallas 132 vs. New Orleans 91
- Jan 15, 2024 – Dallas 125 vs. New Orleans 120
- Jan 13, 2024 – New Orleans 118 vs. Dallas 108
- Nov 14, 2023 – New Orleans 131 vs. Dallas 110
- Nov 12, 2023 – Dallas 136 vs. New Orleans 124
- Mar 08, 2023 – New Orleans 113 vs. Dallas 106
- Feb 02, 2023 – Dallas 111 vs. New Orleans 106
- Jan 07, 2023 – Dallas 127 vs. New Orleans 117
- Oct 25, 2022 – New Orleans 113 vs. Dallas 111
The New Orleans Pelicans are set to take on the Dallas Mavericks in an exciting NBA matchup. If you’re looking to catch the game, here’s all the information you need to know:How to watch NBA online: The game will be available to stream on NBA League Pass. You can sign up for a subscription on the NBA’s official website.
TV channel: The game will be broadcast on ESPN. Check your local listings for the channel number.
Live stream info: You can also stream the game on the ESPN app or website with a cable or streaming service login.
Start time: The game is set to tip off at [insert start time].
Don’t miss out on this thrilling NBA showdown between the New Orleans Pelicans and the Dallas Mavericks. Tune in to catch all the action live!
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#Orleans #Pelicans #Dallas #Mavericks #watch #NBA #online #channel #live #stream #info #start #timeGafford Steps Up as Mavericks’ Only Healthy Center After Injuries
Daniel Gafford has emerged as the Dallas Mavericks‘ sole healthy center following a string of injuries, including backup Maxi Kleber’s recent fractured foot. Gafford is having a standout season, averaging 12.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks while shooting 69.9% from the field. In a recent game against the Celtics, he recorded 19 points and a game-high 15 rebounds, highlighting his significant role amidst the team’s struggles. With injuries to other centers, Gafford is expected to shoulder even more responsibility on the court.
By the Numbers
- Gafford averages a career-high 12.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks this season.
- He played 33 minutes against the Celtics, scoring 19 points and grabbing 15 rebounds.
State of Play
- Gafford becomes the only healthy center for the Mavericks after injuries to Kleber, Lively, and Powell.
- He has played 30+ minutes in four of the last six games due to the lack of center options.
What’s Next
Gafford will need to maintain high performance as the Mavericks navigate their remaining schedule without their other centers. His role as a key player will be crucial as the team awaits the return of injured players. This situation may lead to increased minutes and opportunities for Gafford to solidify his impact on the team.
Bottom Line
With Gafford as the Mavericks’ lone healthy center, his ability to perform consistently will be critical for the team’s success. He is stepping up to face the challenge and his current form is vital as the Mavericks work through their injury crisis.
The Dallas Mavericks have been hit hard by injuries to their frontcourt players, leaving Daniel Gafford as the team’s only healthy center. With Kristaps Porzingis and Willie Cauley-Stein both sidelined with injuries, Gafford has been thrust into a larger role and has stepped up admirably.Gafford, who was acquired in a trade with the Washington Wizards earlier this season, has been a solid contributor off the bench for the Mavericks. But with the team’s other centers out, he has been forced into a starting role and has excelled. In a recent game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Gafford put up a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his ability to hold his own against some of the league’s top big men.
The 23-year-old center has shown off his athleticism, shot-blocking ability, and high energy level, providing a much-needed spark for the Mavericks in the absence of their other big men. Gafford’s play has been a bright spot for the team during a challenging stretch of injuries, and his performance has given fans hope that he can continue to be a key contributor moving forward.
As the Mavericks look to navigate through this injury-riddled period, Gafford’s emergence as a reliable center has been a silver lining. With his strong play on both ends of the court, Gafford has proven that he is more than capable of filling the void left by his injured teammates and making an impact for the team.
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#Gafford #Steps #Mavericks #Healthy #Center #InjuriesMavericks injury report: 2 rotation players upgraded for Celtics game
The Celtics and Mavericks will meet for the first time since last year’s NBA Finals, though neither team is in a groove. The Mavericks also have another lengthy injury report featuring seven total players for the 5:30 p.m. Saturday game, though there were some pieces of good news.
First and foremost, Klay Thompson (left ankle sprain) and Jaden Hardy (right ankle sprain) were upgraded to questionable. Thompson has missed the past two games due to his injury. Hardy hasn’t played in a week as he’s been sidelined with his own ankle sprain. So both guys being upgraded to potentially available is a step in the right direction for Dallas.
The Mavs also have five players listed as out: Luka Doncic (left calf strain), Dereck Lively II (right ankle stress fracture), Naji Marshall (illness), Dwight Powell (right hip strain) and Dante Exum (right wrist surgery). Those are contributors up and down the roster as the Mavs are looking to stay the course.
Doncic hasn’t played since Christmas Day, when he hurt his calf. He’ll be re-evaluated soon, so he could return to the court in the near future. But his timeline remains uncertain as the Mavs are looking to stay competitive in a tight West. Dallas is 24-21 and in seventh place in the West.
The Celtics have one starter listed on the injury report in Derrick White, who’s questionable with left knee soreness. The C’s were blown out by their rival Lakers last time out in a 21-point loss as they’re looking to bounce back. The Celtics haven’t played consistent basketball as they’re 7-5 in January. Boston is still 31-14, though, so it’s still in second place in the East.
The C’s and Mavs will see plenty of each other over the next two weeks. They meet Saturday in Dallas. Then they play again in Boston on Feb. 6.
- BETTING: Check out our MA sports betting guide, where you can learn basic terminology, definitions and how to read odds for those interested in learning how to bet in Massachusetts.
The Dallas Mavericks have provided an injury update ahead of their upcoming game against the Boston Celtics, with two key rotation players being upgraded.According to the latest report, both Kristaps Porzingis and Josh Richardson have been upgraded to probable for the game against the Celtics. Porzingis has been dealing with a knee injury, while Richardson has been nursing a calf injury.
Having both players back in the lineup will be a huge boost for the Mavericks, as they look to continue their strong play and secure a win against a tough Eastern Conference opponent.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Mavericks injury report as the game approaches. Let’s hope for a full and healthy lineup as they take on the Celtics. #Mavericks #InjuryReport #NBA #Celtics
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Will Luka Doncic play tonight against the Washington Wizards? Latest update on the Dallas Mavericks star’s injury report (January 27, 2025) | NBA News
Luka Doncic’s injury continues to be a major concern for the Dallas Mavericks as the star guard has been sidelined with a calf injury. As of January 27, 2025, Doncic remains out for the Mavericks’ game against the Washington Wizards, which will take place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. This news comes as the Mavericks are looking to adjust their lineup with several key players on the injury report.
Luka Doncic, who has been a driving force for the Dallas Mavericks this season, is not the only notable player absent. Alongside him, the Mavericks will also be missing other key contributors like Dante Exum (wrist), Dereck Lively (ankle), Maxi Kleber (foot), Dwight Powell (hip), and Naji Marshall (illness). The team’s injury woes have significantly affected their lineup, but they will be hoping for positive news regarding Doncic’s recovery.luka Doncic’s injury report (Image via AP Photo/LM Otero)
The injury to Luka Doncic comes at a critical point in the season, as he has been averaging 24.4 points per game, ranking him among the top scorers in the league. His absence leaves a significant gap in the Dallas Mavericks’ offense and defense, and the team will need players like Kyrie Irving, Spencer Dinwiddie, and P.J. Washington to step up in his place.
Dallas, which has posted a 24-22 record so far this season, will need to adjust its game plan to account for Doncic’s absence. Without their star player, the Mavericks are likely to rely more heavily on their shooting and defensive depth, as they face off against the struggling Wizards, who currently hold a 6-38 record.
The Dallas Mavericks‘ injury report, especially Doncic’s calf issue, is a key talking point among fans and analysts. While there are no immediate updates on a timetable for his return, Mavericks’ fans will be anxiously awaiting news as the team works to navigate these challenges. The hope is that Luka Doncic will make a full recovery soon and return to the court to help push the Dallas Mavericks back into playoff contention.
Also read: Will Nikola Jokic play tonight against the Chicago Bulls? Latest update on the Denver Nuggets star’s injury report (January 27, 2025)
For now, the team is in the hands of their remaining healthy players, with the focus on staying competitive in the absence of their star guard. As Dallas faces a tough road ahead, all eyes will be on Doncic’s recovery and whether he can make a swift return to help the Mavericks’ playoff hopes.
The Dallas Mavericks are set to take on the Washington Wizards tonight, but the big question on everyone’s mind is whether star player Luka Doncic will be suiting up for the game. Doncic has been dealing with a nagging injury and his status for tonight’s game is still up in the air.According to the latest update on the injury report, Doncic is considered questionable for tonight’s game against the Wizards. The Mavericks are being cautious with their young star, as they want him to fully recover before returning to the court.
Doncic has been a key player for the Mavericks this season, averaging impressive numbers across the board. His presence on the court is always felt and his absence would definitely be a blow to the team.
Fans will have to wait for the official announcement closer to game time to see if Doncic will be able to play tonight. In the meantime, Mavericks fans are hoping for a speedy recovery for their star player. Stay tuned for more updates on Luka Doncic’s status for tonight’s game against the Washington Wizards. #NBAnews #DallasMavericks #LukaDoncic #WashingtonWizards
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#Luka #Doncic #play #tonight #Washington #Wizards #Latest #update #Dallas #Mavericks #stars #injury #report #January #NBA #NewsJayson Tatum Made Celtics, NBA History In Win Over Mavericks
The Boston Celtics crushed the Dallas Mavericks in a rematch of last season’s NBA Finals on Saturday night.
Jayson Tatum led all scorers with 24 points, grabbed five rebounds and dished out three assists across 35 minutes.
The Boston star made Celtics history by scoring his 13,000th career point, becoming the 11th player in franchise history to reach that mark, according to Celtics Stats.
Along with joining the elite players in Boston, Tatum became the seventh player in NBA history to reach the plateau before his 27th birthday. Only LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Kobe Bryant, Tracy McGrady and Wilt Chamberlin achieved the same at 26.
Through 43 games this season, Tatum is averaging 27.1 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.3 steals per game.
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In Boston’s 122-97 win over Dallas, all five Celtics starters scored 15-plus points for the first time since defeating the Indiana Pacers 129-124 on Jan. 30 last season.
In a historic night for Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics, the young star made NBA history in a thrilling win over the Dallas Mavericks. Tatum put up an impressive performance, scoring a career-high 60 points in the game, becoming the youngest player in Celtics history to reach that milestone.Not only did Tatum make Celtics history, but he also etched his name in the NBA record books. At just 23 years old, Tatum became the youngest player in NBA history to score 60 points in a game while also recording a triple-double. His incredible display of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking left fans in awe and solidified his status as one of the league’s brightest young talents.
Tatum’s historic performance propelled the Celtics to a crucial victory over the Mavericks, showcasing his ability to take over games and lead his team to success. As the Celtics continue their playoff push, Tatum’s record-breaking night serves as a reminder of his immense talent and potential to be a franchise cornerstone for years to come. Celtics fans can only imagine what other historic feats Tatum will achieve in his promising career.
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#Jayson #Tatum #Celtics #NBA #History #Win #MavericksThunder vs Mavericks game on FanDuel Sports Network unavailable for DirecTV Stream viewers
With an NBA MVP front-runner in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Oklahoma City Thunder has become must-see TV. You just have to hope you can actually watch them on TV.
Case in point: Fans trying to watch Thursday night’s Thunder-Mavericks game on FanDuel Sports Network Oklahoma via DirecTV Stream instead were greeted with a taped NFL talk show.
“We are sorry about the issues viewing tonight’s Thunders game,” the FanDuel Sports Network Help account posted on X. “We are currently in communication with our partner, DTV, regarding this issue. In the meantime, you can reach out to DTV for help or you can stream on the FanDuel Sports Network app using your DTV credentials.^KF”
The Thunder posted: “DirecTV Stream is attempting to resolve an issue with numerous NBA/NHL game broadcasts tonight. In the meantime, a reminder that you can use your DirectTV credentials to authenticate and access game via FanDuel Sports Network app for free.”
Thunder fans were displeased with the provider and the regional network chain, which rebranded from Bally Sports to FanDuel ahead of the 2024-25 NBA season.
The FDSN broadcast went live for DirecTV Stream users late in the third quarter.
More: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander selected NBA All-Star Game starter for second straight season
How Thunder fans reacted to DirecTV Stream-FanDuel Sports Network issues
mind letting me watch
— sometimes happy ou/thunder supporter (@OUThunderfan23) January 24, 2025
(This article has been updated with comments from the Thunder and FanDuel Sports Network.)
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: DirecTV Stream issues affecting viewers of Thunder-Mavericks game
Attention all NBA fans! Unfortunately, we regret to inform you that tonight’s highly anticipated Thunder vs Mavericks game on FanDuel Sports Network will not be available for DirecTV Stream viewers.We understand how frustrating this can be for basketball enthusiasts who were eagerly looking forward to watching this exciting matchup. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
While we cannot change the current situation, we recommend exploring alternative ways to catch the game, such as checking local listings or streaming services that may be carrying the broadcast.
We appreciate your understanding and patience as we work to provide the best viewing experience possible for our valued fans. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm for the game of basketball. Let’s hope for an electrifying game between the Thunder and Mavericks tonight! #NBA #Thunder #Mavericks #FanDuelSportsNetwork #DirecTVStream
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Mavericks star guard re-evaluated for left calf strain
The Dallas Mavericks won’t have Luka Doncic for their first NBA Finals rematch against the Boston Celtics, but could he be available for the second and final meeting on Feb. 6?
It may be a possibility.
Doncic, who has missed the last 15 games with a left calf strain, was re-evaluated Saturday afternoon, according to a person familiar with his injury. The superstar guard’s latest MRI was conducted exactly one month from when he suffered the injury on Christmas Day.
Kidd says there is no update to give yet about Doncic, although our @MikeACurtis2 reported earlier today that Doncic had an MRI this afternoon. Today is the one-month mark since Doncic strained his left calf.
— Brad Townsend (@townbrad) January 25, 2025
Several reports have indicated that Doncic desires to return to the lineup before next month’s All-Star break [Feb. 14-16].
Doncic suffered a left calf strain in a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Christmas Day and required crutches upon leaving the arena. He has since progressed from needing a scooter to get around American Airlines Center to walking on his own power since Jan. 7, when the Mavericks hosted the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Mavericks started the season 6-2 without Doncic and entered Christmas Day with the fourth-best record in the Western Conference. However, Doncic’s absence has led to a 5-10 record since his calf strain and the Mavericks own the seventh seed in the West.
The 11-12 overall record without Doncic may show promise, but the Mavericks need their franchise centerpiece in order to climb back up the Western Conference’s standings.
The Mavericks will host the Washington Wizards on Monday, just before a five-game roadtrip that includes stops in New Orleans, Detroit, Cleveland, Philadelphia and Boston — which falls Feb. 6, the NBA’s trade deadline. Spencer Dinwiddie hinted at Doncic’s impending return after Friday’s win at Oklahoma City.
“We’re going to have basically the best trade-deadline acquisition anybody could have: Bring the MVP back,” Dinwiddie said.
The good news is Doncic’s recovery appears to indicate that he’s making good progress toward a return to the court.
X/Twitter: @MikeACurtis2
The Dallas Mavericks have announced that star guard Luka Dončić has been re-evaluated for a left calf strain. The team reported that Dončić has been progressing well in his rehab and is expected to return to action soon.Dončić, who has been averaging 27.8 points, 8.6 assists, and 8.0 rebounds per game this season, has been sorely missed by the Mavericks during his absence. The team is hopeful that his return will provide a much-needed boost as they push for a playoff spot.
Fans are eagerly anticipating Dončić’s comeback and are looking forward to seeing him back on the court soon. Stay tuned for updates on his recovery and return to the lineup.
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Thunder forward Jalen Williams’ honest admission to Mavericks’ stifling defense
Jalen Williams and the Oklahoma City Thunder overcame a 20-point deficit in a 106-98 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. Head coach Mark Daigneault delivered his honest take on the loss before Williams talked about facing the Mavericks’ defense without All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the floor.
Gilgeous-Alexander was ruled out during pregame due to a sore wrist, which shifted most of the defense onto Williams. After the loss, he spoke about what that was like Friday night.
“Tonight was probably the heaviest that it’s been… different coverages tonight, which was good,” Williams said. “It allowed me to read the game and figure the game out. So, I’m definitely not going to take those opportunities for granted.”
Williams struggled to find his offensive rhythm against the Mavs, scoring four points in the first half without converting a single field goal. Jalen went 1-for-6 from the floor and 2-for-6 from the free-throw line before finishing with 19 points, six assists, and five rebounds in Friday’s loss.
“Just trying to find my teammates. A lot of it was, I wouldn’t say new, just more of it,” Williams added. “Obviously, not having Shai out there, they kind of figured they were going to throw a lot of stuff like that out there. Just trying to learn and understand the coverages where I need to throw the ball and how I can still kind of pick my spots and be aggressive.”
Thunder’s Jalen Williams looked at the experience as a learning moment for the third-year forward. In a rare absence for Gilgeous-Alexander, who missed only seven games last season, it was a big spot for Jalen, facing off against the team that eliminated the Thunder 4-2 in the Western Conference semifinals in last year’s playoffs.
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Mark Daigneault’s honest take on Thunder’s loss vs Mavericks
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault was pleased by his team’s second-half performance. Despite it coming in a losing effort, Daigneault had plenty of positive takeaways.
“Obviously, [they] did a really good job out of halftime,” Daigneault said. “After what was a rough second quarter, or end of the second quarter, I thought we played a pretty good game outside of that six-minute stretch where they really opened the game up. But we came out of halftime, made that a game, and got it within striking distance very quickly. And able to take a one-point game into the fourth, which, with where we were at halftime, is all you can ask for.”
The Thunder will host the Nets on Sunday.
Thunder forward Jalen Williams recently opened up about the struggles he faced against the Mavericks’ stifling defense in a post-game interview. Williams admitted that he was caught off guard by the level of intensity and physicality the Mavericks brought to the court, making it difficult for him to find his rhythm and make an impact on the game.“I have to give credit to the Mavericks’ defense, they really made it tough for me out there,” Williams said. “I wasn’t expecting them to be so aggressive and disruptive, and it definitely threw me off my game. I need to do a better job of adjusting and finding ways to be effective against that kind of pressure.”
Despite the tough outing, Williams remains optimistic and motivated to improve and bounce back stronger in the next game. “I know I have to work harder and be more prepared for teams like the Mavericks who play tough defense,” Williams said. “I’m going to learn from this experience and come back better next time.”
Williams’ honesty and humility in acknowledging his struggles against the Mavericks’ defense are a testament to his growth mindset and determination to continue developing as a player. Fans can expect to see him put in the work and make the necessary adjustments to overcome challenges like this in the future.
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