DALLAS – Luka Doncic’s impressive 41-point performance, including 30 in the first half, alongside Kyrie Irving’s 29 points, powered the Dallas Mavericks to a commanding 126-97 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday night.
The All-Star duo of Doncic and Irving showed remarkable efficiency, combining for 23 of 40 from the field, a significant improvement from their previous outing against Utah. Irving’s contribution was particularly notable as it marked his second game back from a 12-game absence due to a bruised right heel.
Dallas coach Jason Kidd praised the team’s response following the loss in Utah, highlighting both the improved ball movement and defensive efforts. Irving also matched his season-high with nine rebounds, and Tim Hardaway Jr. contributed 14 points.
The victory kickstarted the Mavericks’ longest homestand of the season, seven games, beginning with back-to-back matchups against Portland. This first win sets a positive tone for Dallas as they continue this crucial stretch at home.
For the Trail Blazers, Shaedon Sharpe led with 16 points, and Anfernee Simons added 15. However, the team struggled, marking their second loss in what will be a challenging seven-game road trip.
The Mavericks faced some concerns as two frontcourt players, rookie center Dereck Lively II and forward Grant Williams, sustained ankle injuries during the game. Coach Kidd reported both injuries as mild sprains, with further updates expected soon.
Doncic’s standout performance included making 10 of 12 free throws in the first half, contributing to Dallas’s season-high score for a half and a substantial 78-47 lead at the break. Portland struggled with fouls and turnovers in the first half, which Dallas capitalized on, scoring 21 points off turnovers.
Portland coach Chauncey Billups acknowledged the difficulty in containing Dallas, especially when compounded by turnovers leading to easy transition points for the Mavericks.
The game also saw some contentious moments, including the ejection of Portland rookie Duop Reath for a flagrant-2 foul after catching Josh Green with an elbow.
Looking ahead, the Mavericks continue their homestand with another game against Portland on Friday, followed by two consecutive games against the New Orleans Pelicans. The upcoming games present an opportunity for Dallas to build on this strong performance and solidify their position in the conference standings.
