Mavericks Fall in Overtime to Heat Without Luka Dončić, Ending Four-Game Win Streak
Kyrie Irving, P.J. Washington, and Naji Marshall delivered big performances, but the Mavericks, without Luka Dončić, fell 123-118 in overtime to the Heat.
MIAMI – The Dallas Mavericks fought valiantly in a tightly contested overtime loss to the Miami Heat, falling 123-118 on Sunday night at Kaseya Center. Without Luka Dončić for the fourth straight game due to a sprained right wrist, Dallas leaned heavily on Kyrie Irving, P.J. Washington, Naji Marshall, and Dereck Lively II, but late-game execution and a cold overtime period proved costly.
“It’s tough when you’re missing a guy like Luka, but we’ve got to find ways to execute,” Irving said. “We were in position to win tonight, but those little details—on defense, on offense—they’re what separate games like this.”
Irving led the charge with 27 points and 6 assists, taking over in the fourth quarter with 14 points to put the Mavericks on the brink of victory. Lively posted 14 points, 13 rebounds, and 2 blocks, controlling the paint on both ends. Washington added 21 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his versatility with timely scoring and strong defense. Klay Thompson chipped in with 15 points and six rebounds.
“We’re seeing guys step up in big moments,” head coach Jason Kidd said. “Kyrie showed why he’s a leader, Dereck gave us a presence inside, and P.J. was a steady force. That’s what we need from this group.”
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