Luka Doncic returned from a wrist injury and delivered a stellar performance, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a 137-131 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Sunday night. Doncic finished with 36 points and 13 assists, helping Dallas secure its fourth consecutive victory.
The Mavericks were without Kyrie Irving due to a sore shoulder, as well as Klay Thompson, Dereck Lively II, and Naji Marshall. Despite Irving’s absence, Dallas’ offense remained potent, thanks to Doncic’s dynamic play.
Portland initially took control of the game, leading by as many as 10 points in the first quarter. However, the Mavs mounted a comeback, going into halftime with a 61-58 lead.
Doncic closed out the first half with back-to-back three-pointers and a 17-foot jumper, setting the stage for a high-scoring second half. Dallas extended its lead in the third quarter, where Quentin Grimes’ dunk gave the team a 79-67 advantage.
The Blazers didn’t go down without a fight. Anfernee Simons exploded for 24 of his 27 points in the third, nearly breaking a team record for points in a quarter. Despite his efforts, Portland found itself trailing as the Mavericks held a 100-97 lead heading into the final period.
With just under two minutes left in the game, Portland managed to tie the score at 127 following a three-point play by Deni Avdija. However, P.J. Washington responded with a crucial three-pointer, putting Dallas ahead for good. The Blazers could not close the gap in the final moments.
While Doncic stole the spotlight, other Mavericks contributed significantly. Spencer Dinwiddie added 20 points, and Quentin Grimes contributed 28 points. Daniel Gafford, despite a first-quarter injury, also played a key role with 19 points and 4 assists.
For the Trail Blazers, Simons’ scoring outburst wasn’t enough to propel his team to victory. Jerami Grant added 14 points, while Deandre Ayton contributed 18 points and 7 rebounds.
The Mavericks’ win moves them to 13-8 for the season, while the Blazers fall to 8-13.
