The Dallas Mavericks, led by Luka Dončić and P.J. Washington, turned the tide in their series against the Oklahoma City Thunder with a 119-110 victory at the Paycom Center. Their crucial win on Thursday night tied the series 1-1 as it heads to Dallas for Game 3 on Saturday. It marked Oklahoma City’s first loss of the playoffs, and the Mavericks showcased resilience to fend off the top-seeded Thunder.
Luka Dončić’s Stellar Performance Sets the Tone
Luka Dončić ignited the Mavericks’ offense with 16 first-quarter points, putting them ahead early and keeping them in control throughout. He was just shy of a triple-double, finishing with 29 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists. He set the tempo in the opening quarter, accounting for 24 of Dallas’ 36 points and netting four of their eight three-pointers.
Despite Luka Dončić’s brilliance, Oklahoma City’s Chet Holmgren provided a spark to keep the Thunder within striking distance, sinking an unbelievable buzzer-beater from a full-court inbounds pass to trim the deficit to four at the end of the first quarter.
P.J. Washington’s Career Night Elevates Dallas
P.J. Washington erupted for a playoff-career high of 29 points, including seven three-pointers, propelling the Mavericks’ offense and helping them maintain control of the game. His dominant display ensured that the Mavericks’ scoring stayed consistent, especially when Luka Dončić needed rest.
Thunder Fight Back, But Dallas Holds Firm
The Mavericks established a double-digit lead before halftime, but Oklahoma City clawed back into contention with a 15-4 rally that narrowed the gap to five points by the break. Aaron Wiggins brought new energy to the Thunder lineup in the third quarter, replacing Josh Giddey to spark a 13-4 run, securing their first lead with a key floater.
Dallas, however, was unphased. Tim Hardaway Jr. came off the bench and notched 10 consecutive points during an 18-4 Mavericks run, putting them back in control and securing a comfortable lead heading into the fourth quarter.
OKC fans didn’t do their research…
Do not talk trash to Luka Dončić during games.
He will make you pay.
pic.twitter.com/VBRsxDY7ut— Mavs Fans For Life (@MavsFansForLife) May 10, 2024
Luka Dončić and Mavericks Stay Unyielding to Finish Strong
Though Oklahoma City kept pushing in the fourth quarter, Luka Dončić provided answers to every Thunder challenge. The Thunder’s offensive struggles (just 1-of-11 from the field down the stretch) gave Dallas the breathing room they needed to secure the win and even the series.
Key Player Stats: Thunder and Mavericks
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: 33 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists
- Jalen Williams: 20 points
- Chet Holmgren: 11 points, six rebounds
- Luka Dončić: 29 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists
- P.J. Washington: 29 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists
- Tim Hardaway Jr.: 17 points off the bench
- Kyrie Irving: 11 assists and nine points
Injuries Loom Over Mavericks’ Playoff Campaign
Luka Dončić’s leg injury and a brief ankle tweak raised concerns, while Daniel Gafford continued to push through a wrist injury. Despite these challenges, Dallas secured a pivotal road win early in the series. If the Mavericks are to advance to the Western Conference finals for the second time in three years, this Game 2 victory is a promising step.
