Mavericks’ Davis Delivers Game-Winner in Comeback Victory Over Hawks

DALLAS, Texas — Anthony Davis scored 34 points, leading the Dallas Mavericks to a narrow 120-118 victory over the Atlanta Hawks Wednesday night at the American Airlines Center. This marked Davis’ highest scoring game since joining the Mavericks, showcasing his pivotal role after recovering from an adductor injury.

After missing 36 games due to a right ankle stress fracture, center Dereck Lively II returned to the lineup, albeit with a 15-minute playing restriction. His presence alongside Davis marked a significant boost for the Mavericks as they push for a playoff spot.

Dallas overcame an 11-point deficit in the third quarter, thanks to more than just Davis’ impressive performance. Klay Thompson significantly contributed with a critical three-pointer late in the game, finishing with 17 points. This victory improved the Mavericks’ record to 38-39, solidifying their ninth position in the Western Conference, just ahead of the Sacramento Kings.

“AD made a big-time shot,” Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd remarked after the game. “It’s great to see our guys execute.”

Davis not only scored but also commanded the defense with five blocks, a testament to his all-around impact on the game. Throughout the contest, he played with a bandage over his right eye, where he had sustained a cut from a teammate’s elbow during the first quarter.

Throughout the game, Davis remarked on his teammates’ resilience. “We’ve seen it a little bit in stretches… but with the guys we have, we can definitely make some noise this postseason,” he said. His historic performance joined fellow Maverick Daniel Gafford as the only players in franchise history to record at least 30 points, 15 rebounds, and five blocks in a single game, making them the only players in the NBA with this stat line this season.

The Mavericks’ offensive execution was evident, shooting 53 percent from the field and 45.5 percent from beyond the arc. They also enjoyed contributions from their bench, which scored 45 points, showcasing their depth as key to success this late in the season.

While Davis played a crucial role in the win, the absence of Kyrie Irving, who is recovering from an ACL surgery, continues to loom over the Mavericks’ postseason aspirations. Davis remained realistic about the team’s potential, emphasizing, “We can’t play what ifs. We focus on who we have in the locker room and just try to stay together.”

The Mavericks will look to build on this victory as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Clippers in an upcoming match, aiming to solidify their place in the play-in tournament.