Dallas Mavericks Use Second Half Surge To Defeat Los Angeles Lakers

The Dallas Mavericks concluded the preseason against the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. The Mavericks used a great second half to defeat the Lakers 121-94 at T-Mobile Arena. Dallas improved to 3-1, while Los Angeles fell to 1-4.

Dallas Mavericks-Los Angeles Lakers Starters

Dallas’ starting lineup had Cooper Flagg, Klay Thompson, PJ Washington, Anthony Davis, and Dereck Lively II. Dallas ruled out Caleb Martin (undisclosed), Brandon Williams (hamstring), Dalano Banton (rest), D’Angelo Russell (rest), Dante Exum (knee), Daniel Gafford (ankle), and Kyrie Irving (knee).

Los Angeles’ starting lineup featured Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jaxson Hayes, Dalton Knecht, and Gabe Vincent. LA sidelined Adou Thiero (knee), Chris Manon (Grade 2 ankle sprain), LeBron James (sciatica), and Maxi Kleber (quadriceps).

Mavericks-Lakers Recap

The neutral site game was a star-studded affair. Los Angeles released new statement edition jerseys just hours before tip-off. NBA legend Dwight Howard and the 2025 WNBA Champion Las Vegas Aces were in attendance. Dallas took an early 2-0 lead in the first quarter. LA’s quick response sparked a 6-2 lead. LA led 22-10 at the first media timeout. Dallas went on a 9-0 run for a late rally. LA settled for a 36-32 lead at the end of the first.

Hachimura’s scoring streak contributed to LA’s cause in the second quarter. Dallas proceeded to pick up the pace. However, LA’s bench stifled Dallas’ starters, including Flagg. LA took a 66-53 lead into halftime. LA opened the third quarter with a 4-0 run. Dallas responded to cut LA’s advantage to 74-67 midway through the third. Davis’ defense helped keep LA at bay, but LA held on for an 86-84 lead after three quarters.

Dallas went on a 7-0 run to open the fourth quarter. Mavericks rookie Guard Ryan Nembhard shone in the fourth. In a sudden turn of events, Dallas outscored LA, who appeared to be gassed, during the final 12 minutes. Dallas won 121-94 in regulation.

Final Thoughts

The Mavericks will open the regular season with a home game at American Airlines Center against the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday at 8:30 p.m. Central. The Lakers will conclude the preseason with a home game at Crypto.com Arena against the Sacramento Kings on Friday at 7:30 p.m. Pacific. The Lakers vs. Kings game will be broadcast on SportsNet LA.