Portland Trail Blazers Edge Dallas Mavericks 125-122
The Portland Trail Blazers welcomed the Dallas Mavericks to the Moda Center on Monday night. The Trail Blazers defeated the Mavericks 125-122. Portland improved to 14-19 and a two-game win streak, while Dallas fell to 12-22 and lost three straight games.
In case you missed it, Cooper Flagg recorded 15 points (5-6 from the field, 3-3 from the three-point range, and 2-2 from the free throw line) in the third quarter against the Sacramento Kings on Saturday, the most points he’s recorded in a quarter. Previously, Flagg had 14 points in a quarter twice.
On Saturday, ESPN Insights reported that Flagg is in elite company. The 19-year-old joined LeBron James and Luka Doncic as the third teenager in NBA history with three consecutive games with 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists.
Portland Trail Blazers vs. Dallas Mavericks Starters
Portland’s starting lineup featured Deni Avdija, Shaedon Sharpe, Toumani Camara, Sidy Cissoko, and Donovan Clingan. Portland ruled out Damian Lillard (Achilles), Blake Wesley (foot), Jerami Grant (Achilles), Jrue Holiday (calf), Scoot Henderson (hamstring), and Matisse Thybulle (thumb). Portland listed Robert Williams III (knee) and Kris Murray (quad) as day-to-day.
Dallas’ starting lineup featured Ryan Nembhard, Max Christie, Cooper Flagg, PJ Washington Jr., and Daniel Gafford. Dallas ruled out Dante Exum (knee), Kyrie Irving (knee), Dereck Lively II (foot), and Anthony Davis (adductor).
Trail Blazers vs. Mavericks Recap
Monday night’s game is a battle of the bottom-feeders on paper. However, Dallas’ rise, led by Flagg, and Portland’s resilient play contributed to a well-played game.
Daniel Gafford opened the first-quarter scoring with an early bucket for the Mavs. Gafford went on to score six straight points. Avdija hit a step-back jumper, along with 9 consecutive points for the Trail Blazers. Caleb Love made a buzzer-beater three-pointer to conclude the first. Portland took a 42-29 lead to end the first.
Gafford recorded 10 points on 4-of-4 shooting from the field and 2-of-2 from the free throw line in the first quarter. His 10 points in the first quarter are the most in a quarter this season and marked the 24th double-figure scoring quarter of his career.
Camara continued to play solid defense and rebounding for the Trail Blazers after 9 points, 3 rebounds, and 3-of-3 three-point line shooting in the first quarter. Flagg responded with a long-range three-pointer after receiving two first-quarter fouls. Portland’s easy finishes provided an advantage. Portland took a 75-63 lead into halftime.
Brandon Williams led the Mavs’ comeback in the third quarter. Williams’ step-back jumper led an 8-0 run that cut the Trail Blazers’ advantage to single figures. Portland benefited from Donovan Clingan’s services. Clingan recorded a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. Portland took a 97-93 lead through three quarters.
Both teams exchanged leads and ties in the fourth quarter. Klay Thompson made multiple three-pointers, showing a glimpse of vintage play. Robert Williams III threw down a two-handed jam after Avdija’s shot attempt. The game went down to the wire, thanks to Christie’s clutch performance, but Dallas fell short. Portland won 125-122 in regulation.
Final Thoughts
Portland closes out 2025 against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Central. Portland’s chances appear to be dim due to the red-hot Thunder team, but anything can happen.
Dallas opens 2026 against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Central. Dallas’ record lags behind Philadelphia’s, but the rising Dallas team can capitalize on Philadelphia’s offensive struggles.
