Pacers Outrun Mavericks in Loss: 'We Just Couldn't Keep the Ball in Front of Us'

Indiana Pacers beat Dallas Mavericks 134-127, highlighting Dallas' defensive struggles and slow starts. Luka Dončić's big night wasn’t enough to counter Indiana’s pace and spacing.

Photo via Dallas Mavericks

DALLAS — The Indiana Pacers surged past the Dallas Mavericks on Monday night with a relentless fast-break pace, securing a 134-127 victory that exposed Dallas' recurring challenges. The loss dropped the Mavs to 4-3 at American Airlines Center.

Despite an impressive performance from Luka Dončić, who recorded 34 points and 15 assists, the Mavericks couldn’t overcome defensive struggles, rebounding issues, and Indiana’s five-out spacing that stretched their defense.

Dallas’ ongoing struggle with slow starts was evident from the opening minutes. The Pacers quickly jumped to a 15-2 lead, as the Mavericks appeared flat and outpaced defensively. By the end of the first quarter, Dallas trailed 36-29, a gap they worked to close but never entirely overcame.