DALLAS – The Dallas Mavericks, led by Kyrie Irving’s season-high 44 points and Tim Hardaway Jr.’s 32 points, edged out the New York Knicks 128-124 on Thursday night. Despite playing without Luka Doncic and two other starters, the Mavericks successfully held off a late Knicks rally.
Irving, who scored 20 points in the third quarter, helped Dallas build a comfortable 115-96 lead. However, the Knicks, fueled by Donte DiVincenzo’s 3-pointer, closed the gap to 121-120 with just over a minute remaining. Josh Green’s crucial 3-pointer and subsequent free throws from Irving and Hardaway ensured the Mavericks’ victory.
Dallas native Julius Randle led the Knicks with 32 points, while Jalen Brunson, returning to Dallas for the first time since his free agency move, added 30 points. DiVincenzo contributed 19 points, but the Knicks experienced their first loss in six games since acquiring OG Anunoby.
Anunoby, who scored 10 points with a significant contribution in the fourth quarter, couldn’t prevent the Knicks’ loss. Irving and Hardaway’s combined 12 of 23 on 3-pointers were pivotal for the Mavericks, who exceeded their average of 15.1 three-pointers per game.
The Knicks, coming off a strong defensive performance against Portland, struggled early, allowing 44 points in the first quarter and trailing by 20 points at one stage. Randle emphasized the team’s need for better preparation and lamented their inability to secure crucial rebounds.
The Mavericks, missing key players including Doncic, center Dereck Lively II, and guard Dante Exum, showcased their depth and resilience. Anunoby, who had shone in the Knicks’ previous game, struggled to find his rhythm initially.
Brunson’s return was marked by a mixed performance, including a technical foul in the first half. The Mavericks’ win adds another chapter to the teams’ rivalry, recalling their dramatic overtime victory in December 2022 when Doncic delivered a career-high performance.
Looking ahead, the Knicks will face Memphis on Saturday, while the Mavericks are set for back-to-back games against New Orleans, starting Saturday.
