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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Phoenix Suns struggled to stay afloat against the Dallas Mavericks in the first half. Luka Doncic and Co. dominated the Suns throughout the half and limited their Big 3 to only 31 points. The Mavs defense threw everything at Kevin Durant and even triggered the 2-time Champion on multiple occasions. After a heated altercation with Forward Grant Williams in the first quarter, KD was fouled again by Mavs guard Josh Green in the second quarter.

Durant was not pleased with the constant physical plays and spilled a 3-word message to rival Josh Green after the controversial foul. “THAT’S NOT BASKETBALL!!” Durant yelled at Green while he recovered from the foul. KD scored only 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists in the first half.

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Kevin Durant’s performance in the first half was underwhelming, considering how well he has played all season. He scored only 2 points more than Josh Green, who had 6 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists in the first half. The Mavs’ unusual defensive tactics may be working on the 2-time Finals MVP. Luka Doncic and co. have agitated KD throughout the game. During the first quarter, Grant Williams disrespected Durant by standing over him while he lay on the ground after he got fouled. That led to a heated shoving match between both teams as Jusuf Nurkic shoved Williams away from Durant.

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Read More: Kevin Durant’s “Tough” Game-Winner Leaves LeBron James Stunned

Can the Phoenix Suns defeat the Dallas Mavericks?

Because of a disappointing performance by the Big 3, the Phoenix Suns trailed the Mavericks by 1 point at the end of the first half. The Mavs are playing without their superstar Kyrie Irving as he is dealing with a sprained right thumb. Fans expected the Suns to dominate the Mavs in Kyrie’s absence. However, Luka Doncic had other plans. Luka went off for 24 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds in the first half. He had nearly as many points as the Suns Big 3 combined. The Suns will need a better second-half performance from Bradley Beal, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker if they want to defeat the Mavericks.

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They have a solid chance to do so, as Luka might not be able to continue his scoring outburst in the second period. The Mavs superstar rolled his ankle in the first half after he landed on Kevin Durant’s foot while trying to block his shot. That might be the opening the Phoenix Suns need to get the upper hand in tonight’s game. It will be interesting to see how Kevin Durant and Co. respond in the second half.

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