WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Dallas Mavericks extended their winning streak to six games Thursday night with a commanding 137-101 win over the Washington Wizards. After the game, head coach Jason Kidd, Luka Dončić, and Daniel Gafford shared their thoughts on the team’s performance and what it means moving forward.
Kidd on Energy and Chemistry
Kidd credited the team’s cohesion and intensity with their success. Dallas has won 10 of its last 11 games, and Kidd emphasized how players thrive in their roles.
“The energy is at a high right now,” Kidd said. “Guys are settling into their roles and playing at a high level. You can see the rhythm and trust on both ends of the floor.”
Kidd also highlighted Dončić’s leadership and ability to impact the game in multiple ways, especially after recording his first triple-double with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.
“Luka’s fingerprints are all over the game—passing, rebounding, and scoring at a high level,” Kidd said. “When he sees the double team, he knows exactly where to go with the ball. His ability to lead and control the tempo is what makes us dangerous.”
However, Kidd didn’t shy away from critiquing areas for improvement. Reflecting on the team's defensive lapses earlier in the season, Kidd noted their progress but stressed the need to maintain consistency.
Dončić Reflects on Team Chemistry and Personal Milestone
For Dončić, the victory wasn’t just about the numbers, though his triple-double was historic—his 78th career triple-double, tying him with Magic Johnson and James Harden for seventh place on the NBA’s all-time list.
“Those are unbelievable names,” Dončić said. “Just to be up there with them—it’s unbelievable for me. I never take it for granted. I just want to keep having fun playing basketball.”
Dončić also praised the team’s chemistry, evident during their recent stretch of success. “Great, I think, offense and defense,” Dončić said. “Just sharing the ball, having fun playing with these guys on the floor. Everybody's playing relaxed, locked in, [with] high intensity. We just enjoy each other.”
The Slovenian superstar also reflected on his matchup with Wizards forward Bilal Coulibaly, praising the young defender’s instincts and potential.
“He’s a good defender,” Dončić said. “I think he’s very athletic, and he predicts my moves good. That’s pretty impressive. He’s going to get better and better. Once you’re in the league a few years, you get to know players and learn how to play the game.”
Gafford on Returning to His Former Team
Daniel Gafford, who finished with 16 points and 7 rebounds off the bench, spoke about facing his former team. Despite being on the opposing side, Gafford expressed gratitude for his time in Washington and the relationships he built there.
“It feels good, just to kind of be back in the old stomping grounds,” Gafford said. “The love was still the same for me. All the guys said they miss me, and I miss those guys as well. It’s just all love.”
Gafford’s performance was one of the many highlights from Dallas’ supporting cast. Eight Mavericks finished in double figures, including Jaden Hardy, who added 13 points in just six minutes before getting injured. Gafford credited the team’s unselfish play and focus on execution for their success.
“It’s good for us because we’re still building,” Gafford said. “The chemistry is getting better, and guys are just comfortable. We’re not hesitating—we’re just out there having fun playing the game.”
Video credit for press conferences belongs to the Dallas Mavericks.
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