The Mavericks finally broke their losing streak, beating the Hawks 122-116. Luka Doncic had 27 points and 14 assists. He also made 10-10 on the free throw line. John Collins paved the way for the Hawks, scoring 35.
Sometimes the result seemed doubtful, but in the end the Mavericks got their first win in six games. Here are five statistics that explain how.
120: Mavericks win 4-0 by scoring more than 120 points.
The attack came in spurts against the Hawks, but the Mavericks were able to put 122 points. The last time they scored 120 or more was against Spurs on January 22. Dallas came in this season with a focus on defense and have sometimes been better in that regard, but the attack has been hampered. If they can find a rhythm and get a few easier buckets, winning will be much easier.
19.5: Average score for Trae Young against the Mavericks.
Young averages less than 20 against Dallas, the second worst score he scores against any opponent. Only the Warriors kept him at a lower average score. Whenever Doncic and Young team up, they will be charged as a one-on-one case, but so far the Mavericks have frustrated Young.
13: The number of offensive rebounds for the Mavericks.
The Mavericks were absolutely killed on the boards throughout the season, but tonight they showed some energy and heart. They had 13 offensive rebounds, just like Atlanta, and in this case the draw is a victory for Dallas. These offensive cards led to 14 second chance points.
3: Trae Young free throws.
The young man had an average of 10.7 free throws per game in tonight’s game against Dallas, the second best move in the league. The Mavericks held him just three in 36 minutes, one of which was a technical free throw.
20: Mavericks win 3-0 when three players score more than 20 points in a game.
Doncic scored 27, Kristaps Porzingis made 24 and Tim Hardaway Jr. left with 22 points tonight. It sounds simple, but Mavericks only need more faces to score if they want to win. Doncic will receive his numbers and open eyes to his teammates. It is up to them to convert those looks into points, and the Mavericks did that tonight.