Luka Doncic returned to action after missing the preseason with a calf injury, recording 28 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists as the Dallas Mavericks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 120-109 in both teams’ season opener on Thursday night. Klay Thompson, making his Dallas debut, contributed 22 points and seven rebounds.
Kyrie Irving added 15 points to round out the Mavericks’ top scorers, and their defense gained momentum with three consecutive San Antonio turnovers in the third quarter.
Victor Wembanyama, opening his second NBA season, managed 17 points on a challenging 5-for-18 shooting night. The young French center added nine rebounds but struggled against Dallas’ defense in the paint.
The Spurs’ lineup showed promise, with Jeremy Sochan and Julian Champagnie each posting 18 points. San Antonio’s offense appeared unrefined, especially with Chris Paul’s first appearance as a Spur. Paul, beginning his 20th NBA season, scored just three points on a lone three-pointer but contributed eight assists and seven rebounds.
Thompson’s debut underscored the Mavericks’ new offensive versatility, as his early defensive efforts in the third quarter alongside Irving set the tone. Though Dallas only capitalized on the turnovers for two points, the sequence provided a glimpse of the defensive improvements the Mavericks have emphasized this season.
In the fourth quarter, Dallas pulled further ahead, showcasing strong bench contributions from Dereck Lively II, who added 15 points and 11 rebounds, and Jaden Hardy, who scored 11. San Antonio’s younger players, including Sochan and Wembanyama, displayed flashes of potential, but the team’s consistency lagged as Dallas’ experienced roster dictated the pace.
