Doncic’s Absence
In a matchup against the Dallas Mavericks on the 6th, the Golden State Warriors, riding a scorching six-game winning streak, missed the presence of the Mavericks’ top player, Luka Doncic, due to a knee injury. Despite this, the Warriors’ leading scorer, Stephen Curry, exploded for 28 points, keeping the game tight throughout. However, Klay Thompson’s last-second three-point attempt fell short, leading to a 108-106 victory for the Mavericks and snapping the Warriors’ six-game streak.
Tightly Contested Battle
Despite their recent winning streak and securement of a playoff berth, the Warriors faced a tough challenge on the road against the Mavericks, who were missing their star player. At halftime, the Warriors held a slim two-point lead in a closely contested game.
Mavericks’ Surge
In the third quarter, the Mavericks capitalized on numerous trips to the free-throw line to reverse the scoreline. Led by Kyrie Irving and P.J. Washington Jr., they built a nine-point lead in the final quarter. However, Stephen Curry, the Warriors’ “Chef Curry,” rose to the occasion, scoring crucial points and tying the game with a fadeaway jumper with just 13 seconds left.
Washington’s Heroics
Following a timeout by the Mavericks, Washington, who had been on fire throughout the game, sank a critical shot with 4.5 seconds remaining to put the Mavericks ahead. Despite a timeout by the Warriors, Thompson’s baseline three-point attempt to win the game fell short, resulting in a two-point victory for the Mavericks.
Standout Performances
Washington shone brightly for the Mavericks, tallying 32 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, 5 steals, and 2 blocks. Irving also contributed 26 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists, and 2 steals.
Warriors’ Efforts
Despite the loss, Curry led the Warriors with 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists, although he struggled with 9-of-23 shooting from the field. Thompson added 16 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals.
Maintaining Playoff Position
Despite the defeat, the Warriors remain in 10th place in the Western Conference, with a four-game lead over the Houston Rockets, who also lost on the same day. Their participation in the play-in tournament is almost assured. (JILIEVO)
