Dallas Mavericks Defeat Miami Heat 118-108 to Win 3 Straight

The Dallas Mavericks returned home to host the Miami Heat on Wednesday. The Mavericks defeated the Heat 118-108 at the American Airlines Center. Dallas improved to 8-15, while Miami fell to 14-8.

In case you missed it, Dallas upset the Denver Nuggets 131-121 at Ball Arena on Monday. Anthony Davis led the Mavericks with 32 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists. Davis, 32, recorded a season-high 32 points and a season-high-tying 13 rebounds, along with four assists and two blocks.

With 28 points and 10 assists, Ryan Nembhard ended Monday with the most assists and the fifth-most points by an undrafted rookie in the Mavericks’ history. Nembhard, 22, became the third rookie in the Mavs’ history to record 25 points and 10 assists in a game.

Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat Starters

Wednesday’s game showcased a non-conference matchup. The two teams’ history goes back to the 2006 NBA Finals. The odds favored Dallas, but Miami won in six games. Most recently, Dallas took down Miami’s superteam of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh in six games at the 2011 NBA Finals.

Dallas’ starting lineup featured Ryan Nembhard, Max Christie, Cooper Flagg, Naji Marshall, and Anthony Davis. Dallas ruled out Kyrie Irving (knee), Dante Exum (knee), Dereck Lively II (foot), and PJ Washington (ankle). Daniel Gafford returned to the team’s lineup but left the game with an aggravating right ankle injury.

Miami’s starting lineup featured Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Pelle Larsson, Andrew Wiggins, and Bam Adebayo. Miami ruled out Terry Rozier (immediate leave) and Norman Powell (ankle). Miami listed Pelle Larsson (foot) as day-to-day.

Mavericks vs. Heat Recap

Wednesday’s game featured a lopsided matchup of a top-five Eastern Conference squad and a bottom-five Western Conference team. Previously, Miami narrowly defeated Dallas 106-102 on Monday, Nov. 24. Tyler Herro led the Heat with 24 points and seven rebounds.

Miami went on an 8-0 run to open the first quarter. Dallas ended Miami’s run with a bucket to get on the board. Miami played small ball. Dallas picked up the pace but fell short. Dallas’ turnover issue persisted. Miami took a 33-28 lead to end the first.

Dallas made a bucket to open the second quarter. Miami’s shooting and top-five scoring offense sparked headlines. Dallas’ top five defense attracted attention. Ryan Nembhard showed versatility on both ends of the court. Dallas took a 64-54 lead into halftime.

Both teams exchanged buckets to open the third quarter. Dallas maintained their composure. Miami missed 17 of its first 21 shots from the three-point line. Anthony Davis threw down a one-handed dunk. Dallas took a 93-80 lead through three quarters.

Both teams played strongly to open the fourth quarter. Both teams’ scoring plays resembled chess matches. Cooper Flagg came up clutch with plays that proved his determination, strength, and self-confidence. Dallas won 118-108 in regulation.

Final Thoughts

Dallas faces the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday at 8:30 p.m. Central, while Miami takes on the new-look Orlando Magic on Friday at 7:00 p.m. Eastern. So, stay tuned.