Dallas Mavericks: Dirk Nowitzki moves into 3rd in all-time games played

Dallas Mavericks legend Dirk Nowitzki passed Hall of Famer John Stockton for third on all-time NBA games played list on March 8.

Dallas Mavericks GOAT Dirk Nowitzki is no stranger to making history. He is in his 21st NBA season all with the Mavericks. Dirk continues to move toward the top of the all-time lists in almost every category.

The Mavs traveled to Orlando to face the Magic on Friday evening. Dallas was riding a three-game losing streak going in. It was the final leg of a three-game east coast road trip as well.

It was not the Mavericks night. The Magic jumped out to an early lead and never relinquished it. Dallas made a furious comeback including outscoring Orlando 33 to 19 in the fourth quarter, but it wasn’t enough. The Magic earned a 111-106 victory.

The game held a bit of significance for Dirk Nowitzki, though. Here is a Tweet from Mavericks official account detailing the legend’s latest feat.

That means just Hall of Famers Robert Parish (1,611) and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1,560) have played more NBA games than Dirk Nowitzki’s 1,505. The Mavericks franchise player would need to come back next season to pass Kareem for second.

Being third on the all-time games played list may not seem as prestigious as being seventh in points scored or 11th in 3-pointers made, but it is a massive accomplishment. Nowitzki loves the game of basketball and to be able to play it at the highest level as he approaches his 41st birthday is incredible. Dirk still has the sweetest shooting stroke in the NBA. Watching him play basketball will always be a thing of beauty.

Final thoughts

The Dallas Mavericks lost to the Orlando Magic on March 8, but future first-ballot Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki passed John Stockton for third in all-time games played. Vince Carter is the only active player near Dirk on the list meaning he should be safe in third for the foreseeable future.

Nowitzki had a fantastic night against the Magic. He scored 15 points on six of 11 shooting from the field. Dirk also had five rebounds, one assist, and one 3-pointer made in 19 minutes of action. He continues to look healthier since the All-Star Break. Expect his health to play the deciding factor in returning for a record 22nd NBA season with the Mavs.

Dallas Mavericks fans love cheering for Dirk Nowitzki. It was fantastic to see him once again receive a standing ovation in Orlando. The Mavs legend transcends basketball. Hopefully, Dirk gives fans one more season to enjoy his greatness.