Mavericks Find Their Shooting Stroke in Game 2
After struggling from beyond the arc in the opening game of the second round, the Dallas Mavericks rediscovered their shooting touch in Game 2. They drained a total of 18 three-pointers, with P.J. Washington leading the charge with 7 of them. Luka Doncic also contributed 29 points, as did Washington, as the Mavericks dominated the Thunder throughout the game, securing a 119-110 victory and handing the Thunder their first loss of the postseason.
Stellar Performances from Washington and Doncic
In addition to his 29 points, Washington grabbed 11 rebounds, dished out 4 assists, and recorded 2 steals. Doncic showcased his versatility with 29 points, 10 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 steals. Despite Kyrie Irving’s modest scoring output of 9 points on 8 field goal attempts, his facilitation with 11 assists, along with 2 steals and 2 blocks, played a crucial role in the Mavericks’ triumph.
Contributions from the Bench
Tim Hardaway Jr. came off the bench to contribute 17 points, while Josh Green added 11 points and Daniel Gafford chipped in with 13 points and 7 rebounds. The Mavericks’ bench production complemented their starters well, contributing to their overall success.
Three-Point Shooting Disparity
The Mavericks’ ability to convert from beyond the arc proved to be a significant factor in the game. They outscored the Thunder by eight three-pointers, despite having a lower overall field goal percentage. This disparity allowed them to maintain control of the game’s momentum.
Early Dominance Led by Doncic
Doncic set the tone early in the game, scoring 16 points in the first quarter alone. Washington’s additional 11 points helped the Mavericks establish an early lead. Despite a combined 32-point effort from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams in the first half, the Thunder trailed by six points at halftime. The Mavericks’ proficiency from beyond the arc was pivotal in maintaining their lead.
Thunder’s Attempted Comeback
Early in the third quarter, the Thunder briefly took the lead with a 13-4 run fueled by Luguentz Dort’s three-point shooting. However, the Mavericks quickly regained control behind the scoring efforts of Washington, Doncic, and Green. Hardaway’s contributions helped extend their lead to double digits once again, effectively determining the game’s outcome.
Thunder’s Struggles and Mavericks’ Defensive Efforts
Despite their efforts to mount a comeback, the Thunder struggled to find their rhythm from beyond the arc, shooting just 1-for-7 in the fourth quarter. Despite the Mavericks’ shooting percentage dropping below 40% in the final quarter, the Thunder couldn’t narrow the deficit, resulting in their first postseason loss at home.
Conclusion
With Doncic’s dominant performance and contributions from key players like Washington and Hardaway, the Mavericks successfully evened the series at 1-1. Their balanced scoring attack, combined with stout defense, proved too much for the Thunder to overcome in Game 2.(FADA888)