Kyrie Irving scored 23 points to guide the Dallas Mavericks to a 110-102 victory over the Utah Jazz on Monday night. This win improved the Mavericks’ record to 2-1 in the early NBA season.
Klay Thompson contributed 18 points, while Luka Doncic added 15 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Despite Doncic’s struggles with shooting, the Mavericks secured a solid team performance.
The game took a concerning turn when Jazz forward Taylor Hendricks was wheeled off on a stretcher due to a broken leg. Hendricks suffered a fractured right fibula and dislocated ankle, adding to Utah’s woes.
Collin Sexton led the Jazz with 23 points, supported by Lauri Markkanen and Keonte George, who each scored 17. Utah has now lost its first three games for the first time since the 2015-16 season.
Irving, who was scoreless until the final seconds of the first quarter, hit two crucial three-pointers to help Dallas maintain its lead. His shooting touch proved essential for the defending Western Conference champions.
The Mavericks led 101-95 with just under three minutes remaining when P.J. Washington blocked Walker Kessler at the rim. Doncic followed with a timely three-pointer, pushing the lead to nine and securing the victory.
Dallas displayed effective ball movement and resilience throughout the game. The team shot 50% from the field, capitalizing on their scoring opportunities.
Utah struggled to find its rhythm, shooting only 37% from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc. This performance marked the Jazz’s continued difficulty with field-goal shooting early in the season.
Doncic’s shooting struggles were evident, as he finished with just 5-of-22 shooting. This was nearly his second game without a three-pointer, a rarity for the star guard.
Despite the setback, the Mavericks demonstrated depth, with bench players contributing significantly. Dereck Lively II provided a spark off the bench with 14 points.
