Dallas Mavericks Unable to Hold Off Defending NBA Champion In 101-94 Loss

The Dallas Mavericks continued the homestand against the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder at the American Airlines Center on Monday night. It was also the second of back-to-back Hardwood Classic nights. Dallas dropped a 101-94 decision to Oklahoma City. Dallas’ record fell to 1-3, while Oklahoma City’s record improved to 4-0.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Starters

The Dallas Mavericks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder game came with so-called drama on both sides. Dallas and Oklahoma are a budding rivalry, thanks to fierce competition and passionate fanbases. Megan Thee Stallion attended the game.

Dallas’ decision to retire the jersey of its first true star, Mark Aguirre, delighted its fanbase, while Oklahoma City’s sustaining of turnover generation and execution continued to make waves in the NBA world.

Dallas’ starting lineup featured Cooper Flagg, Max Christie, Klay Thompson, PJ Washington, and Anthony Davis. Dallas ruled out Kyrie Irving (knee), Dante Exum (knee), Dereck Lively II (knee), Daniel Gafford (ankle), and Brandon Williams (personal reasons).

Oklahoma City’s starting lineup featured Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort, Cason Wallace, Chet Holmgren, and Isaiah Hartenstein. Oklahoma City ruled out Thomas Sorber (knee), Kenrich Williams (knee), Nikola Topic (groin), Alex Caruso (concussion), Isaiah Joe (knee), and Jalen Williams (wrist).

Mavericks vs. Thunder Recap

Monday night’s game was exciting from start to finish. Dallas’ explosive offense capabilities were in full force, while Oklahoma City’s electric defense disrupted the opposing offense and created turnovers.

Oklahoma City opened the first quarter with an early 9-2 lead, which included Dort’s first bucket of the night. Washington went to the free throw line in an attempt to shoot two free throws. Oklahoma City settled for a 28-24 lead to end the first.

Oklahoma City took an early 4-2 lead to open what turned out to be a rather low-key second quarter. Oklahoma City’s field goal shooting continued to triumph, while Dallas’ shooting seemed to decline without Davis. Dallas stepped up its game, but Oklahoma City took a 48-42 lead into halftime.

Oklahoma City overpowered Dallas’ efforts in the third quarter. Jaylin Williams drove in and threw a jam. Thompson scored a 2-point shot to lift Dallas’ spirits. Oklahoma City led 87-69 after three quarters.

Dallas gradually outscored Oklahoma City in the fourth quarter. Christie hit a 3-pointer as Dallas inched closer with an impressive 20-4 run. However, Dallas’ efforts weren’t enough. Oklahoma City’s late rally led to a 101-94 win in regulation.

Final Thoughts

The Mavericks conclude their homestand against the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. Central. The game will be broadcast on FDSIN.

The Thunder return home to host the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. Central. The game will be broadcast on TBD.