Mavericks Fall to Pelicans in Shorthanded Matchup After Controversial Finish: 'We Thought It Was Goaltending'

Mavericks fall 119-116 to Pelicans in a controversial finish. Despite big nights from Gafford and Washington, a disputed no-call sealed Dallas' fate.

Photo: Dallas Mavericks

NEW ORLEANS — A night of high emotions, thrilling basketball, and pivotal moments ended controversially when the Dallas Mavericks (22-19) lost 119-116 to the New Orleans Pelicans (10-32) at the Smoothie King Center on Wednesday. Despite both teams being shorthanded, everything from dramatic comebacks to standout individual performances occurred, but it will ultimately be remembered for its contentious ending.

The Mavericks, who faced an 11-point deficit in the first half, rallied behind Daniel Gafford’s career-high 27 points and 12 rebounds, Jaden Hardy’s 21 points, Spencer Dinwiddie’s 20 points and five rebounds, and P.J. Washington’s 14 points and 14 rebounds. Despite being without Luka Doncic (left calf strain), Kyrie Irving (lumbar back sprain), Dereck Lively II (right ankle sprain), and Danté Exum (right wrist surgery) Dallas fought hard to take a late lead in the fourth quarter before ultimately falling short in clutch time.

“We always have motivation,” Dinwiddie said. “This group and coaching staff are pretty focused. We compete every night, and we’re still above .500. We’re not making any excuses; we’re using a next-man-up mentality and focusing on our day-to-day preparation, practice, and the games ahead. We’re trying to win each game as it comes, but of course, we’re also looking to return to full strength.”