Dallas Mavericks: Dirk Nowitzki honored by Doc Rivers and the Clippers

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki was honored during an impromptu moment created late in the Feb. 25 game by Clippers Head Coach Doc Rivers.

The Dallas Mavericks traveled to Los Angeles to face the Clippers on Monday evening. Luka Doncic returned after missing two games with an ankle injury. Dirk Nowitzki was in the starting five for the second time this season (It was the first time Luka and Dirk started together). It seemed like it could be a special night.

The Clippers walked away with the 121-112 victory, but Mavs fans had plenty to talk about after the game. Doncic had his fourth triple-double of the season. Nowitzki looked healthier in route to playing 25 minutes and dropping 12 points. Dwight Powell and Tim Hardaway Jr. both had 20-plus points.

The top headline may have taken place as the game was winding down, though. The Clippers had the victory secured, but called a timeout with nine seconds left in the game. Here is what happened next courtesy of the Mavericks official Twitter account.

It was a very classy move by the NBA veteran and long-time head coach Doc Rivers. Dirk does not want a farewell tour, but his legendary career is worth honoring at every moment. Monday’s game marked the 1,500th of his career. That is good for fourth all-time. Hopefully, Mavs fans get to see more tributes as the season winds down.

It is worth noting that Dirk Nowitzki has not officially said he is retiring at season’s end. He has left the door open to play another year. The tributes should not stop, though. Dirk has earned all the praise he receives. Fans should be more than willing to stand and cheer the future Hall of Famer.

Do not look now, but Dirk Nowitzki has played over 25 minutes and scored 12-plus points in two straight games. This is the Dirk fans envisioned at the beginning of the season. Expect the legend to be productive down the stretch and give Dallas Mavericks fans plenty to cheer about in the final weeks.