Dallas Mavericks: Tim Hardaway Jr. drops 33 in loss to Hawks

Dallas Mavericks guard Tim Hardaway Jr. went off for 33 points in heartbreaking defeat against the Atlanta Hawks on Feb. 22.

The Dallas Mavericks faced a difficult game on Saturday evening. It was the second night of a back-to-back on the road against the Atlanta Hawks. Things got more challenging when Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis were ruled out well in advance of tipoff. Both players are managing nagging injuries.

It did not take long for things to go from bad to worse for the Mavs. Jalen Brunson started in place of Luka at the point only to be injured ten seconds into the game. He was quickly ruled out with a shoulder injury.

The Mavericks had the lead in the fourth quarter but struggled hitting shots down the stretch. It allowed the Hawks to grab a 111-107 victory in front of their home crowd. John Collins had a massive 35 points and 17 rebounds for Atlanta. Trae Young chipped in 25 and ten dimes.

Dallas finished with four players in double-figures. Seth Curry had 22 points and took on more playmaking duties with the injuries at the point guard spot. Delon Wright finished with 14 points on eight field goal attempts. Justin Jackson scored ten for the third time in 2020.

THJ leads the way

Tim Hardaway Jr. was the player of the game for the Mavericks, though. He had 33 points, four rebounds, and five assists in 35 minutes of action on Feb. 22. THJ finished 11 of 22 from the field including six made 3-pointers. Fans can see his highlight reel below.

The Mavs needed Hardaway Jr. to step up, and he delivered. It was his third 30-plus point game of the season. It was a stellar performance that gave Dallas a chance to pull off another victory without their two star players.

THJ missed two free throws and three field goal attempts in the final three minutes, though. The team continued their crunch time struggles in the loss. It remains something they need to get figured out before the postseason kicks off.

Up next

The Dallas Mavericks head back home to play the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. Both Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis should return to the lineup. The Wolves will be without Karl-Anthony Towns because of a broken wrist. Consider it advantage Mavs on Feb. 24.

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