Luka Doncic Finds Help in Saving Face as LaMelo Ball Comes Alive – 3 Takeaways For Mavs After Wild Hornets Encounter

Following their first loss of the season, the Dallas Mavericks have improved their record to an impressive 5-1 after a hard-fought victory against the Charlotte Hornets. The Hornets entered the game fresh from their thrilling last-minute win against Tyrese Haliburton’s Indiana Pacers. Luka Doncic took the reins for Dallas, racking up 23 points. On the other hand, LaMelo Ball notched a 30-point performance for the Hornets. Early on, the Mavs found themselves in a 13-8 lead, despite a concerning -25 scoring differential in the first quarter. Consequently, they faced a halftime deficit of 62-50, at one point trailing by 15.

Nevertheless, with crucial contributions from their teammates and timely missteps from the Hornets, Dallas managed to navigate their way to victory. It was a game of twists and turns that ultimately favored the Mavericks.

1. Dereck Lively II rose to his potential

Derek Lively exemplified precisely what Dallas had been seeking in a big man. Following his modest 4-point performance against the Denver Nuggets, the towering center rose to the occasion against the Hornets. In a 32-minute showcase, Lively dominated with 15 points on the offensive front. In pursuit of leaving an indelible mark on both ends of the court, he secured 14 rebounds.

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Moreover, as the game reached its critical juncture, with Dallas determined to maintain its grip, Lively’s presence was pivotal. He finished a crucial alley-oop, courtesy of Luka Doncic, and effortlessly converted a missed lay by Kyrie Irving.

2. Grant Williams makes timely buckets

Grant Williams remains an essential pillar of strength for the Mavericks. In the battle against Hornets, he showcased exceptional efficiency; going 7-for-9 from the field and hitting 4 out of 5 threes, bolstering the Mavericks’ efforts to fend off their opponent’s surge.

Notably, during the fourth, Williams seized the moment when he found himself wide open in the corner. Luka Doncic delivered a precise cross-court pass, granting Williams the opportunity for an uncontested three-pointer. Building on his momentum, Williams promptly nailed another three during a fastbreak attempt by Dallas. His sharp shooting played a crucial role in maintaining the Mavericks’ hold on the game.

3. Luka Doncic erupts for a near triple-double

Luka Doncic is currently setting the season ablaze with an average of 33.8 points per game; all while shooting an impressive 50 percent from the field (44% from beyond the arc). However, he began the game with a scoreless first quarter, going 0-4 from the field. However, Doncic ignited with 8-11 shooting in the remaining period, racking up 23 points. Furthermore, he seemed in his element, orchestrating the offense with 9 assists and securing 12 rebounds. Remarkably, the game marks Luka’s fifth double-double in just the first six games of the season.

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Despite the Mavericks holding a slim lead, the Hornets had a golden opportunity to level the playing field, trailing by a mere three points. However, their hopes were dashed after a five-second violation. Furthermore, an off-the-ball foul by LaMelo Ball put Irving on the charity stripes, extending the Mavericks’ lead to four points.

With this win, the Mavs sit 2nd in the Western Conference, having played one less game than the Nuggets in 1st. Will this new pool of talent help the Mavs secure a playoff spot and a chance at a championship? Let us know below.