The Dallas Mavericks would want to erase tonight’s game from their memory. They blew a 20-point lead in the second half and suffered a devastating loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Luka Doncic started the game red-hot, scoring 29 points in the first half. It looked like the Mavs would easily bag a win to continue their dominant streak. However, the Cavs’ resilience in the second half and some poor decisions by the Mavs resulted in a huge upset. Dallas lost the game 113-110.
Mavs star Luka Doncic was in dismay after the game as the Cleveland Cavaliers stung his team at home in a wild finish.
Luka Doncic furious after heartbreaking loss
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Luka Doncic dropped 39 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists in tonight’s game against the Cleveland Cavaliers. But his incredible performance was not enough to get his team the win. After the game, we saw a visibly angry Luka. He yelled in frustration while heading into the locker room. That could have been because of what transpired in the final seconds of the game. With Dallas trailing by 3 points and 8 seconds remaining on the clock, Luka had a chance to tie the game with a three-pointer. But the Cavs double-teamed Luka on defense and did not allow him to shoot.
Luka Doncic seems very very upset. Have to wonder if the anger is coming from Jason Kidd’ late game draw up… pic.twitter.com/kMPOp6kFFo
— MFFL NATION (@NationMffl) December 28, 2023
Doncic was looking for an open teammate to take the final shot, but no one was in the correct position despite two defenders guarding Luka. He finally passed the ball to Seth Curry, but it was too late for a good attempt, and Seth air-balled the final shot.
Luka’s frustration is understandable, considering the Mavs had a commanding lead at the end of the first half.
Read More: Is Ja Morant a More Impactful Leader Than Luka Doncic?
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The Dallas Mavericks need Kyrie Irving back
Luka Doncic has been doing all the heavy lifting since Kyrie Irving got injured. Irving injured his foot on December 8th during the Blazers-Mavs game. He has missed 10 consecutive games since the injury, and it is uncertain when he will return to action. The Mavs need another closer in their squad to make tough shots in clutch situations. That was evident in tonight’s game as Luka got double-teamed on the final play because there was no other shooting threat on the floor.
Kyrie was averaging 23 points before he got injured. He is one of the most clutch players in the NBA and has proven that he can deliver in clutch situations throughout his career. Luka Doncic and Co. need their second superstar back in the line-up if they want to continue their hot start to the season. Otherwise, there might be many more frustrating nights for Luka Doncic in the coming days.
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Do you think Kyrie Irving’s return will strengthen this Mavs side and help them close out games like today’s?
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