The Mavericks vs Nuggets showdown on Sunday was the basketball equivalent of a Hollywood thriller. The Denver Nuggets erased a 19-point deficit, outscored the Mavericks 33-12 in the fourth quarter, and secured a stunning 112-101 victory in Dallas. Led by the dynamic duo of Nikola Jokic and Russell Westbrook, the Nuggets demonstrated why they’re a force to be reckoned with this season.
Denver Nuggets: A Comeback for the Ages
Trailing by 19 late in the third quarter, Denver looked down and out. But as the saying goes, “It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.” Denver’s fourth-quarter performance was nothing short of extraordinary. Jokic, with his near triple-double (19 points, 18 rebounds, 9 assists), and Westbrook, who added 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists, led the charge.
The game-changing moment came midway through the fourth quarter. With Mavericks center Dereck Lively II in foul trouble, Jokic spun past P.J. Washington for a signature finger-roll basket, giving Denver their first significant lead of the game at 99-96. From there, it was all Nuggets.
Mavericks’ Short-Handed Struggles Continue
Playing without Luka Doncic (calf strain) and Kyrie Irving (back sprain), the Mavericks struggled to find consistency. While Klay Thompson poured in 25 points, his shooting touch vanished in the fourth quarter, going scoreless on four attempts. The absence of their All-Star guards was palpable, with the Mavs falling to 2-5 without them this season.
Dallas had moments of brilliance, especially in the first half, where they shot an impressive 10-for-15 from beyond the arc. However, their inability to maintain that momentum, combined with a disastrous 0-for-11 from deep in the fourth, sealed their fate.
Key Takeaways from Mavericks vs Nuggets
- Jokic and Westbrook Shine: Denver’s stars delivered in the clutch, combining for 40 points, 28 rebounds, and 16 assists.
- Denver Dominates the Paint: The Nuggets outscored the Mavericks 68-40 in the paint, showcasing their physicality and strategic play.
- Fourth-Quarter Masterclass: Denver’s 33-12 run in the final period highlights their ability to close out games under pressure.
- Mavs’ Perimeter Woes: Dallas’ hot start from three fizzled, going ice-cold in the decisive moments.
Key Moment
The turning point was undeniably Jokic’s finger-roll basket with 4:28 left on the clock. That bucket not only gave Denver a 99-96 lead but also crushed the Mavericks’ morale, setting the stage for Denver’s commanding finish.
FAQs
Nikola Jokic (19 points, 18 rebounds, 9 assists) and Russell Westbrook (21 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists) starred for Denver, while Klay Thompson led Dallas with 25 points.
Denver dominated the paint, outscoring Dallas 68-40.
The Mavericks struggled offensively and defensively, particularly in the fourth quarter, dropping to 2-5 without their star guards.
The Nuggets and Mavericks face off again in Dallas on Tuesday night, their final regular-season meeting.
Conclusion: Nuggets Show Their Championship Mentality
The Mavericks vs Nuggets clash was a testament to Denver’s resilience and championship aspirations. Overcoming a massive deficit, Denver proved why they’re a top-tier team. Jokic and Westbrook’s leadership, coupled with their dominance in the paint, underscored their depth and versatility.
For Dallas, it’s back to the drawing board. Without Doncic and Irving, the Mavericks will need to find new ways to compete and close out games. As these two teams prepare for their next matchup, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in this growing rivalry. Denver may have won this battle, but the war is far from over.
